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According to report by The Nation on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, political activities are intensifying across Enugu North, Ondo South, Rivers South-East, and Nasarawa North senatorial districts ahead of the scheduled June 20, 2026 by-elections conducted by INEC to fill vacant seats in the National Assembly.
The contests, spread across several states, have drawn attention due to the mix of experienced politicians, emerging contenders, and shifting party dynamics that are shaping expectations ahead of the polls.
In Enugu North, the race has become particularly heated following the death of Senator Okey Ezea of the Labour Party.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Chief Ikeje Israel Asogwa, is widely viewed as a strong contender, boosted by his administrative background, party influence, and extensive political network.
His record in public service, including housing development and education management, has been highlighted by supporters as evidence of his competence and leadership capacity.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is presenting Dr. Nestor Ezeme, a respected academic and administrator known for reforms in the education sector.
While his credentials are strong, analysts suggest that internal divisions within the PDP may weaken its chances in the election.
The Labour Party (LP), which previously held the seat, is fielding Ambassador Ejike Eze, a seasoned diplomat whose campaign focuses on accountability and governance reforms.
However, observers note that the party may struggle without the momentum it enjoyed in earlier elections.
Meanwhile, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate, Chika Idoko, has gained attention among youths due to his message of inclusion and generational change.
The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) remains unsettled following delays in its primary process.
In Ondo South, APC’s Prof. Dayo Faduyile, a medical expert and former health adviser, is contesting against PDP’s Adeolu Akinwumi, an engineer advocating infrastructure development.
Other parties are still finalising their candidates as zoning debates and grassroots mobilisation shape the contest.
In Rivers South-East, APC, PDP, and ADC have fielded candidates in a race influenced heavily by political alliances, particularly the Rainbow Coalition led by Nyesom Wike.
In Nasarawa North, tensions are rising as major parties compete, including a notable rivalry between two brothers representing different parties, reflecting the deep political and ethnic dynamics within the district.
While all contests remain competitive, APC candidates appear to hold slight advantages in several districts due to stronger structures and broader political influence.
