By Ogochukwu Isioma
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has congratulated Senator-elect, Joe Ikpea, and Member-elect of the House of Representatives, Omosede Igbinedion on their victories in last Saturday’s Edo Central Senatorial and Ovia Federal Constituency by-elections.
According to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Ikpea scored a total of 105,129 votes to defeat his closest rival, Prince Joe Okojie of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who scored 15,146 votes.
Similarly, Igbinedion polled 77,053 votes. Her closest rival, Mr Johnny Aikpitanyi of the PDP, managed to secure only 3,838 votes, while Dr Sandra Asemota of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) trailed further behind with 925 votes.
Both Senate and Reps’ seats became vacant after Senator Okpebholo and Hon Dennis Idahosa, who previously held the positions, were elected governor and deputy governor respectively of the state in September 2024.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo praised the voters for coming out in their thousands to vote massively for the candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ikpea and Igbinedion.
He re-assured the electorate that with the resounding victory of the APC and its candidates, Ikpea and Igbinedion, the 2027 presidential election will be a walk-over for President Tinubu in Edo State.
“This victory is a clear indication of the trust and confidence the people have in Ikpea and Igbinedion’s abilities to represent their interests effectively at the National Assembly.
“I have no doubt that Ikpea and Igbinedion will be strong and powerful voices for our State, working tirelessly to attract development and ensure that the people of Edo Central and Ovia Federal Constituency receive the attention they deserve,” the Governor added.
Governor Okpebholo also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for conducting a free, fair, and credible election and praised the security agencies for maintaining peace and order throughout the electoral process.
The Governor called on all stakeholders to support Ikpea and Igbinedion as they embark on this new journey of service.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to working with all elected officials, regardless of political affiliation, to advance the progress and development of Edo State.
”On behalf of the Government and good people of Edo State, I wish Joe Ikpea and Omosede Igbinedion a successful and impactful tenure. We look forward to a fruitful collaboration that will bring about positive change and prosperity for our State,” the Governor concluded.
