The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially awarded the certificate of return to Monday Okpebholo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, after his victory in the Edo State governorship election. This formal presentation took place on Thursday at the INEC headquarters in Abuja,, confirming Okpebholo as the duly elected governor of Edo State, following a highly contested electoral process.
In the election held on September 21, Okpebholo emerged victorious by securing a total of 291,667 votes, defeating his closest competitor, Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who garnered 247,274 votes. The Labour Party (LP) candidate, Olumide Akpata, finished in third place with 22,763 votes. This electoral outcome has been a significant milestone for the APC in the state.
In this election, Okpebholo’s APC party made significant gains, winning in over 10 of the 18 local government areas. The PDP managed to claim marginal victories in the remaining councils, indicating a shift in voter preferences across the state. Notably, the APC dominated in two of the three critical senatorial districts within Edo, which reflects a decisive change in the political landscape of the region, showcasing the APC's growing influence and the challenges facing the PDP in maintaining its foothold in Edo politics.
Meanwhile, the PDP has rejected the results of the recent Edo State Governorship election, as declared by the INEC. During a media briefing in Abuja on Monday, the Acting National Chairman of the PDP, Amb. Umar Damagum, expressed his party’s dissatisfaction with the electoral outcome, asserting that the people of Edo State rightfully voted for the PDP’s candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo. He emphasized that the voters expect Ighodalo to be announced as the governor-elect, reflecting the party’s belief in the legitimacy of their claims regarding the election results.
The unfolding political scenario in Edo State continues to capture public attention, with both parties gearing up for potential legal challenges and further developments as they navigate the aftermath of the election results.
