Edo Decides 2024: Will Ighodalo, Akpata or Okpebholo Emerge Victorious?

As residents of Edo State cast their votes today, the three leading political parties are fully prepared for the election. With over 2.2 million permanent voter cards collected, the candidates, Senator Monday Okpebholo (All Progressives Congress), Asue Ighodalo (Peoples Democratic Party), and Olumide Akpata (Labour Party) are vying for the highest number of votes.

The victorious candidate will take over Osadebe House on November 11, when incumbent Governor Godwin Obaseki completes his two terms in office.

Peter Uwadiae, the Publicity Secretary for the APC in Edo State, emphasized his party’s readiness, stating, “Our campaign has shown our preparedness. We’ve adhered to legal requirements, and our campaign has focused on issues. We’re confident, although we have concerns about potential disruptions, especially with reports of individuals linked to violence roaming free in the area.”

Dr. Pedro Obaseki, Deputy Director General of Media for the Ighodalo campaign, raised alarms about possible election interference by thugs, highlighting potential threats in local government areas like Oredo, Egor, Uhunmwonde, and parts of Ovia Federal Constituency.

On the other hand, Sam Uruopa, Public Relations Officer of the Labour Party, asserted that Akpata is well-prepared, having campaigned extensively across the state. He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remain impartial and called on security forces to respect the electorate.

The key battleground will be in Edo Central, the home region of both Okpebholo and Ighodalo. While Okpebholo claims strong local support, Ighodalo will rely on the PDP’s established popularity in parts of Edo South.

Edo North, traditionally an APC stronghold, has seen the PDP make gains since the last presidential election, creating competitive dynamics in the region.

The return of influential political figures like Mathew Urhoghide and Charles Idahosa has strengthened the APC’s position after a lackluster performance in the last general election. Meanwhile, Akpata’s unexpected rise as the Labour Party candidate has sparked interest, particularly in Edo South, where he has been actively campaigning statewide to broaden his support base.

Despite the Labour Party’s successes in previous elections, the competition remains fierce as both the APC and PDP are solidifying their influence in key areas.