The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reclaimed the Ibadan North Federal Constituency seat in Oyo State as its candidate, Fola Oyekunle, emerged victorious in Saturday’s keenly contested by-election.
Oyekunle secured 18,404 votes, defeating Adewale Olatunji of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who polled 8,312 votes, marking a decisive lead of over 10,000 votes.
The result was announced in the early hours of Sunday by the Returning Officer, Prof. Abiodun Oluwadare, at the collation centre in Ibadan.
“Fola Oyekunle of the PDP, having satisfied the requirements of the law and scored the highest number of votes, is hereby declared the winner of the election,” Oluwadare declared.
Other candidates trailed far behind, with Femi Akin-Alamu of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) recording 88 votes, Olabisi Olajumoke of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) with 40 votes, and Hammed Badmus of the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) getting just 18 votes.
The seat became vacant following the death of APC’s Olaide Akinremi on July 10, who had represented the constituency until his passing.
The by-election outcome is being seen as a significant boost for the PDP in Oyo State, coming at a time when the ruling party is consolidating its grip across several regions.
Supporters of the PDP have taken to social media to celebrate the victory, describing it as “a win for the people of Ibadan North.” Party loyalists have also praised the late-night collation process as “transparent and orderly,” despite low voter turnout.
Governor Seyi Makinde, under whose leadership the PDP continues to dominate Oyo politics, is expected to issue a formal congratulatory message to Oyekunle in the coming hours.
The win strengthens the PDP’s hold in the state’s National Assembly representation and may set the tone ahead of the 2027 general elections.