Ibadan North Bye-Election: PDP Takes Early Lead as Low Voter Turnout Dominates Polling Units

The much-anticipated Ibadan North Federal Constituency bye-election held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, has begun yielding early results, with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) showing initial dominance across several polling units. However, the exercise has been largely overshadowed by very low voter turnout, logistical hiccups, and late arrivals of election officials in some wards.

Low Voter Turnout and Voting Experience

Reports from multiple polling stations indicate that less than 20% of registered voters turned out to exercise their franchise in many areas. Electoral observers attribute this apathy to reduced voter awareness, disinterest, and weekend engagements.

At Ward 10, Unit 27 (Bodija), a voter identified as Oluwaseun Omisakin was the first to cast her ballot, describing the process as “seamless” despite a brief BVAS malfunction.

Meanwhile, at Ward 10, Unit 26 (Methodist Grammar School, Bodija), officials and security personnel arrived early and commenced voting promptly.

However, some polling units faced delays. At Sango, Oju Irin (Ward 8, Unit 31), INEC officials arrived at approximately 9:50 a.m., nearly two hours later than expected.

Accreditation and Voting Status

Voting and accreditation are ongoing across most wards. For instance:

At Ward 6, Unit 10 (Sabo), polling was active with continuous participation.

At Methodist School, Ward 5, Unit 54, reports via social media confirmed that voting was underway by 10:16 a.m., with orderly conduct observed.

INEC has confirmed the smooth functionality of BVAS machines in most units, with only minor technical glitches reported.

Early Results Trickling In

Unofficial results from selected polling units are beginning to emerge, suggesting an early lead for the PDP:

Ward 02, Unit 14 → PDP: 61 votes, APC: 30 votes

Ward 04, Unit 50 → PDP: 12 votes, APC: 0 votes (Registered Voters: 46)

Yemetu, Ward 03, Unit 19 → PDP: 82 votes, APC: 30 votes

Additional scattered tallies across other wards also show the PDP holding an advantage, although these remain partial, unverified, and unofficial at this stage.

Quick Summary: Key Trends So Far

Area Observation

Voter Turnout Very low, with most polling units recording less than 20% participation.

INEC Preparedness Mixed; some wards started on time, others experienced late arrivals.

Voting Technology BVAS operational overall, with minor glitches recorded.

Voting Status Ongoing; smooth in most locations with security presence.

Early Results (Unofficial) PDP currently leading across several polling units, including Yemetu and Bodija.

While the bye-election remains ongoing, the low turnout has emerged as the defining feature of the day. With just a handful of results trickling in, the PDP appears to be leading in early counts, though the All Progressives Congress (APC) is still expected to show strength in other areas as more units are collated.

The situation in Ibadan North remains fluid, and with 12 wards in the constituency, the final outcome could still shift as results are officially announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).