The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Halilu Danladi Envulanza of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the Nasarawa North Senatorial District by-election in Nasarawa State.
The by-election was conducted to fill the vacant seat left by the death of former senator Godiya Akwashiki, who passed away in December 2025 after a prolonged illness.
Why the Election Was Held
Akwashiki, who represented Nasarawa North in the Senate, died at the age of 52 while receiving medical treatment in India.
First elected in 2019 and re-elected for a second term, he became the first senator from the district to serve two consecutive terms since the creation of Nasarawa State.
Following his death, INEC scheduled a by-election to fill the vacant seat.
Official Results
According to INEC, APC candidate Halilu Danladi Envulanza secured the highest number of votes to emerge victorious.
Breakdown of Results (Candidate, Party, Votes)
Halilu Danladi Envulanza APC 45,362
Labaran Maku Labour Party 12,931
Emmanuel David Ombugadu PDP 11,570
Alaku Mohammed Steve Ahmed ADC 4,244
Duba Ishaya Dodo NDC 1,496
John Paul Araneshri NNPP 102
The result gives the APC another legislative victory ahead of preparations for the 2027 general elections.
What the Result Means
Political observers say the margin of victory demonstrates the APC’s continued strength in Nasarawa North, despite challenges from opposition parties.
The contest also provided an early indication of the relative strength of newer opposition platforms such as the ADC and NDC in the region.
While Labour Party and PDP finished second and third respectively, neither party came close to overturning the APC’s lead.
Reactions From Nigerians
The announcement sparked reactions across social media.
@Politicols
“Every registered party was able to field candidates and appear on the ballot. The results show who currently has structures on the ground.”
@PragmaticDB
“APC continues to record victories in elections. Political influence is ultimately measured at the ballot box.”
@OlanrewajuIdowu
“The results show that APC remains a dominant force in many parts of the country.”
@Beewhyade
“PDP remains the most established opposition party despite the outcome.”
@ArewaVoice
“The margin is significant. Opposition parties will need stronger grassroots mobilisation before 2027.”
APC Strengthens Position Ahead of 2027
The victory is expected to boost APC’s confidence as political parties begin positioning themselves for the 2027 elections.
Analysts note that while by-election results do not always predict future general elections, they often provide insight into party organisation, voter mobilisation, and grassroots support within specific regions.
For now, Halilu Danladi Envulanza will represent Nasarawa North in the Senate, succeeding the late Senator Godiya Akwashiki.
