The much-anticipated bye-election for the Ibadan North House of Representatives seat is almost here, set for Saturday, August 16, 2025.
This election follows the passing of the former lawmaker, Hon. Musliudeen Olaide Akinremi, known as Jagaban, who died in July 2024.
Jagaban, a two-term representative of the All Progressives Congress (APC), was 51 at the time of his passing.
According to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), nineteen registered political parties will participate in the election.
The candidates from these parties have emerged as their respective flag bearers and will be competing against each other.
While there are several parties involved, the fierce contest will likely be between four leading parties in the state: the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Labour Party (LP), and the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The candidates from these parties are actively engaging with the public, working to secure votes, and it is anticipated that the election will be highly competitive.
Ibadan North Federal Constituency, which includes the Ibadan North and Ibadan North West local governments, is an area of great political significance.
It is notable for its high-ranking politicians and influential candidates.
Ibadan North, in particular, is considered the largest local government in Oyo State, and the current APC senator from the Oyo South senatorial district, Barr. Sarafadeen Abiodun Alli, hails from the local government.
Also, the political interests surrounding this bye-election, especially from the sitting governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, and the PDP, make this election particularly noteworthy.
Observers believe it may be a direct contest between the ruling PDP and the main opposition party, APC.
Here are four strong candidates to watch:
1. Hon. Folajimi Oyekunle (PDP): A former deputy chief of staff to Governor Seyi Makinde, Oyekunle is a significant contender despite facing some criticisms. A former member of the Oyo State House of Assembly and a successful entrepreneur, he has a proven track record of community service through his Fola Oyekunle Foundation, which focuses on scholarships, healthcare support, and empowerment schemes.
2. Hon. Olatunji Haastrup Adewale (APC): Known as Murphy, Adewale is recognized as a grassroots mobilizer and philanthropist. He has articulated a vision for his community based on transparency and good governance. His past experience as a candidate in the 2003 general elections remains relevant in his campaign, and he seeks to unite the party and constituents for collective progress.
3. Dr. Kayode Adejumo-Bello (LP): A Theatre Arts graduate from the University of Ibadan, Adejumo-Bello is a writer and talent scout dedicated to nurturing young writers. His creative background provides a unique perspective on the issues facing his constituents.
4. Dr. Dexter Femi Akin Alamu (ADC): A well-known figure in Oyo politics, Alamu has previously campaigned under the Labour Party and is a pastor, author, and entrepreneur. As the Chairman and CEO of Dexterity Global Group, he aims to galvanize party support and pledges to propose a social welfare bill if elected.
The Ibadan North Federal Constituency is comprised of 12 wards with a total of 512 polling units.
Registered voters in the area total 272,196, with 217,980 having collected their Permanent Voters’ Cards, according to INEC.
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