APC Records Surprise Victory in Taraba By-Elections, Sends Warning to PDP

In a surprising turn of events, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has secured key victories in the recently concluded State Assembly by-elections in Taraba, a state long regarded as a stronghold of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared APC candidates winners after final results were collated from the affected constituencies.

The by-elections were conducted to fill legislative seats left vacant following the death or resignation of former lawmakers.

In one of the most notable contests, APC candidate Abner Shittu emerged victorious in the Karim 1 constituency, defeating his PDP rival by a comfortable margin.

The result has been widely interpreted as a deepening of APC’s presence in a region historically dominated by the PDP.

Observers reported that the exercise was largely peaceful, with moderate voter turnout recorded. INEC commended voters, security agencies, and election officials for their roles in ensuring a smooth process, while reiterating its commitment to conducting transparent, credible, and inclusive elections across the country.

Reacting to the outcome, the APC in Taraba described the victories as a strong indication of growing public confidence in the party’s policies.

The party attributed its success to effective grassroots mobilisation and consistent engagement with local communities.

Political analysts have since described the development as a warning sign for the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections. According to analysts who spoke with Newsmen, the APC’s win in Karim 1 should not be dismissed as a minor upset but rather seen as a reflection of the shifting political mood in Taraba.

“The APC’s victory, small as it may appear, is a loud warning for the PDP. It shows that politics is no longer about assumed loyalty. It’s about strategy, visibility, and connection with the people,” one analyst remarked.

Others noted that the APC’s gains were largely the result of sustained groundwork and its ability to exploit internal divisions within the PDP, including complacency and disunity.

“Karim 1 should not be viewed as just a by-election. It reflects the current mood of the electorate. Voter loyalty is shifting, and the PDP must act decisively if it wants to remain relevant,” another analyst observed.

With these results, the APC has not only expanded its representation in the Taraba State House of Assembly but also issued a strong political statement ahead of the next general elections.

Analysts have warned that unless the PDP quickly restructures, resolves its internal crises, and reconnects with its grassroots base, the ruling APC could further consolidate its influence in areas once considered opposition strongholds.

At the time of filing this report, the PDP had yet to issue an official reaction to the by-election outcome.