Edo Central: APC, PDP, ADC, SDP battle for Okpebholo’s vacant seat

The race for the Edo Central senatorial by-election reaches its climax today, with a winner expected to emerge by evening.

The contest follows the declaration of the seat vacant after Monday Okpebholo, who previously represented the district in the Senate, won the September 2024 governorship election in Edo State.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) cleared four major parties — the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), and Social Democratic Party (SDP) — to participate in the high-stakes race.

The Labour Party (LP) was, however, disqualified after INEC ruled that the party failed to notify the commission of its primary election and did not invite officials to monitor the process. Consequently, Paul Okojie, who was initially announced as the LP candidate, was excluded from the ballot.

Idumonza Isidahomhen (SDP)

Isidahomhen, a veteran media professional and publisher of OpenLife, a pan-African news magazine, is the flagbearer of the SDP. Twice an SDP governorship aspirant (2020 and 2024), he emerged unopposed in the party’s primary.

He has promised to make children’s welfare a cornerstone of his legislative agenda.

While he enjoys goodwill among certain segments of the electorate, analysts believe his campaign may be limited by financial constraints compared to his rivals.

READ ALSO: ADC accuses FG of twisting Okonjo-Iweala’s economic rmarks, warns against ‘superficial stability’ narrative

Sergius Ogun (ADC)

Ogun, the ADC candidate, is a two-term former member of the House of Representatives. With over 25 years in Nigeria’s oil sector, a law degree from the University of Benin, and training at the Lagos Business School, he brings significant experience to the race.

A grassroots politician, Ogun’s entry is seen as a potential game-changer, with analysts suggesting his candidacy could disrupt the traditional dominance of the APC and PDP in Edo Central.

Joe Okojie (PDP)

The PDP is fielding Joe Okojie, a former commissioner and special adviser on agriculture and food security in Edo State. He secured his ticket after polling 84 votes at the party’s July 21 primary in Ubiaja, defeating John Yakubu (52 votes) and ex-Speaker Friday Itulah (21 votes).

Okojie is widely known for his scholarship and widow empowerment programmes, which have endeared him to sections of the electorate. His campaign promises centre on agricultural development, including the provision of improved seedlings, farming tools, access to credit, and capacity-building for local farmers.

READ ALSO: ADC accuses FG of twisting Okonjo-Iweala’s economic rmarks, warns against ‘superficial stability’ narrative

Joseph Ikpea (APC)

The APC candidate, Joseph Ikpea, is a founding member of the ruling party. He emerged through consensus after the Edo Central caucus adopted him at a meeting in Benin City on June 29.

A former commissioner for minerals, oil and gas, as well as ex-chairman of Esan South-East Local Government Area, Ikpea has been lauded for his achievements in grassroots governance, particularly infrastructure projects such as schools, health centres, and council facilities.

High-Stakes Contest

The by-election is widely regarded as a litmus test ahead of 2027, with each party hoping to assert dominance in Edo Central, a key battleground in the state’s political landscape.

Analysts note that while the APC and PDP retain traditional strongholds, the ADC’s entry, backed by the growing coalition of opposition leaders, could tilt the balance of power.

The SDP, though considered the underdog, may still play the role of spoiler in a closely contested race.