By Ismaeel Aleem
Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani attributed the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s victory in the Chikun Federal Constituency by-election to his administration’s inclusive and merit-based governance.
In an interview with TVC, Sani underscored the significance of the win in a constituency long dominated by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999.
He noted that Chikun, which the Labour Party won two years ago before the death of its representative prompted the by-election, saw the APC secure 70% of the votes, totalling 34,580, while the PDP trailed with 11,491, according to results announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
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“This is the first time the APC has won Chikun Federal Constituency,” Sani said, crediting the shift to his administration’s governance approach.
The governor emphasised that his leadership prioritises fairness, justice, and equity over divisive factors such as religion or ethnicity.
He expressed dismay at recent political debates centred on Kaduna’s religious demographics, describing them as “unfortunate and unnecessary.”
Sani stressed: “As leaders, we don’t run our state based on religion, party, or ethnic affiliation,” urging a focus on leadership quality instead.
Sani’s administration has rolled out grassroots-focused policies, including improvements in road infrastructure, healthcare, education, and security, which he said resonated strongly with voters.
The state Commissioner for Information, Ahmed Maiyaki, echoed this view, describing the victory as “historic and symbolic,” reflecting public trust in Sani’s people-oriented leadership.
The APC’s success extended to Zaria Kewaye and Basawa State Assembly constituencies, further consolidating the party’s dominance in Kaduna.
The Chikun/Kajuru breakthrough, previously an opposition stronghold, underscores a political shift driven by Sani’s inclusive policies, which prioritise unity and development.
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Stakeholders, including APC State Secretary Yahaya Baba Pate, hailed the victories as endorsements of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Sani’s bridge-building leadership, positioning the APC for the 2027 elections.