Presidency Taunts Atiku, Obi After APC Sweeps Bye-Elections

The Presidency has taken a swipe at opposition leaders, Atiku Abubakar of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Labour Party’s former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, following the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s strong showing in last Saturday’s bye-elections.

In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter) Monday morning, Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga mocked the opposition by posting a group photo featuring Atiku, Obi, and other ADC members with the caption: “How is the market now?” Although he did not directly name anyone, the post was widely interpreted as a jab at the opposition bloc in the wake of the ruling party’s victory.

The bye-elections were held to fill seats left vacant due to the death or resignation of lawmakers elected in the 2023 general elections. APC emerged dominant, winning 12 out of the 16 contested seats. The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) secured 2 seats, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) won one seat each. The election in Zamfara State was declared inconclusive.

The polls took place across 12 states, although some reports included Zamfara, making it 13 in total.