The results were compiled by the Prime 9ja Online from local government tallies. The final decision will shortly be announced by the collation officer, Muhammad Laminu Mele, a professor and deputy vice chancellor of the University of Maiduguri.
Mr Fintiri, who defeated an incumbent, Jibrilla Bindow of the APC, in 2019 to become governor, has been a constant feature in Adamawa politics for years. He served first as a member of the Adamawa State House of Assembly. In 2014, he served briefly as the acting governor from July to October after a political crisis led to the impeachment of then-Governor Murtala Nyako.
The victory of Mr Fintiri has prolonged the emergence of Nigeria’s first elected female governor. Mrs Ahmed, who secured her party’s ticket throughout the election cycle was seen as the best chance yet for a woman to be elected as governor in Nigeria’s 62 years of post-independence politics.
Briefly, on Sunday, a day after the election, congratulatory messages flooded the social media for Mrs Ahmed. But the celebration came while the collation of results was still underway, and the results circulated by faceless people on social media turned out to be false.
The election was peaceful, and security operatives were on the ground to ensure that the election was not disrupted. There were no reports of violence or election malpractice.
Speaking to reporters after his victory was announced, Mr Fintiri thanked the people of Adamawa for their support and promised to continue to work for the development of the state. He also promised to be a governor for all, irrespective of party affiliation.
Mr Fintiri’s victory has been widely celebrated by his supporters, who see him as a leader who is committed to the development of the state. His victory is also seen as a reflection of the people’s belief in the PDP and its ability to deliver good governance.
The PDP has been in power in Adamawa state since 2019, and Mr Fintiri’s victory has ensured that the party will continue to govern the state for another four years.