In a highly anticipated election, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner of the Edo State governorship race, held on Saturday, September 21, 2024.
Okpebholo received 291,667 votes, defeating Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate Asue Ighodalo, who got 247,274 votes, and Labour Party’s (LP) Olumide Akpata, who secured 22,761 votes.
Prof. Faruk Kuta, INEC’s Returning Officer, announced the results at 9:27 PM, prompting celebration from APC supporters in Benin City. Kuta confirmed that Okpebholo met all legal criteria to assume the governorship.
Okpebholo’s win came from securing 10 out of 18 local government areas and reclaiming two senatorial districts for the APC. His success is linked to alliances with key political figures, including his running mate Dennis Idahosa, former deputy governor Philip Shaibu, and the influential Adams Oshiomhole.
This victory marks a major shift in Edo State politics, with the APC regaining control after losing to the PDP in 2020.
Incumbent Governor Godwin Obaseki had switched to the PDP and defeated the APC’s Osagie Ize-Iyamu in the previous election. Obaseki supported Ighodalo in this election, while Oshiomhole played a key role in advancing Okpebholo’s campaign.
With Okpebholo’s win, the APC is poised to reassert its influence over Edo State’s governance as the state transitions to a new administration.
