The Independent National Electoral Commission has officially declared Asogwa Ikeje Israel of the All Progressives Congress as the winner of the Enugu North Senatorial District by-election. The APC candidate polled a commanding total of 162,360 votes, far ahead of all other contenders in the keenly contested poll held on June 20, 2026.
This declaration followed collation across the six local government areas that constitute the senatorial district, marking a significant political gain for the APC in the region. The by-election, conducted to fill the vacancy created by the demise of the former senator, was however overshadowed by widespread reports of disruptions.
Multiple accounts highlighted incidents of thuggery, violence, alleged rigging, and the absence of INEC officials along with essential election materials in several wards. These irregularities have fueled intense criticism and raised serious doubts about the overall credibility of the process. Despite the controversies, INEC proceeded with the announcement, confirming Asogwa Ikeje Israel as the duly elected representative.
The Peoples Democratic Party fielded Dr. Nestor Ezeme as its candidate, positioning him as the primary challenger and main opposer to the ruling All Progressives Congress in the race. Dr. Ezeme emerged as the closest rival, securing 9,299 votes. However, the PDP has strongly rejected the outcome, with the candidate vowing to approach the courts to challenge the results and reclaim what they describe as the people’s mandate.
Other parties trailed significantly, with the National Democratic Congress candidate recording 3,129 votes, the African Democratic Congress candidate 1,676 votes, and the Labour Party candidate 1,027 votes. This decisive victory for the APC is expected to reshape the political dynamics in Enugu State and influence representation at the national level. Asogwa Ikeje Israel will now assume office as the senator representing Enugu North Senatorial District.
Oppositions and Stakeholders continue to call for comprehensive investigations into the reported malpractices to strengthen the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral system.
