Senator Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has emerged as the winner of the Edo State governorship election. The result, announced by the Returning Officer, Prof. Faruk Kuta, at the collation centre in Benin City, confirmed Okpebholo’s victory over his closest rivals, Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party (LP). Okpebholo secured a total of 291,667 votes, while Ighodalo garnered 247,274 votes, and Akpata finished with 22,763 votes.
Okpebholo’s Victory in a Competitive Race
Monday Okpebholo’s triumph follows a fiercely contested race, with the APC and PDP candidates competing for dominance across Edo’s 18 local government areas. Edo North, traditionally an APC stronghold, contributed significantly to Okpebholo’s success. His victory marks a significant shift in Edo’s political landscape, where PDP has previously maintained influence in Edo Central and Edo South.
Official Results Announced by INEC
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) released the official results from each local government area, confirming Okpebholo’s lead in several key regions. For example, in Ovia North-East, APC secured 13,225 votes, while PDP received 15,311, and LP earned 1,675 votes. The final tally confirmed Okpebholo’s overwhelming support in Edo North, securing his position as the newly elected governor.
PDP and LP Candidates Trail Behind
Asue Ighodalo of the PDP followed closely behind Okpebholo but could not surpass the APC candidate’s votes. Despite strong support in Edo South and Edo Central, Ighodalo’s 247,274 votes were insufficient to clinch the win. Labour Party’s Olumide Akpata, with only 22,763 votes, finished a distant third, highlighting the party’s weaker presence in the state.
Prof. Kuta Declares Okpebholo Winner
Announcing the results, Prof. Kuta, Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Minna, stated, “That Okpebholo, having satisfied the requirement of the law, is hereby declared the winner and returned elected.” His declaration marks a victory for the APC, which has sought to regain control of Edo’s political leadership in recent elections.
Celebrations Begin as APC Supporters Rejoice
Following the announcement, supporters of Monday Okpebholo took to the streets of Benin City to celebrate the victory. APC members and loyalists praised Okpebholo for his resilience and vowed to support his administration in transforming Edo State. As the governor-elect, Okpebholo has pledged to focus on infrastructure development, job creation, and economic stability for the state.
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