The Edo State governorship election held last Saturday captivated the attention of the state’s residents and political observers alike. With results announced on Sunday by the Returning Officer, Prof. Faruq Adamu Kuta, Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Minna, the election has set the stage for a significant shift in the state’s political dynamics. As new leadership emerges, political maneuvering and potential defections are expected.
Edo State has 2,629,025 registered voters across 4,519 polling units, with 2,249,780 (85.57%) holding Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs). As the dust settles, we explore the key winners and losers of the fiercely contested election that will shape Edo’s future.
WINNERS
1. Monday Okpebholo
Declared the winner of the governorship race, Senator Monday Okpebholo emerged as the election’s most prominent victor. His triumph marks a personal and political milestone, as he transitions from relative obscurity to a central figure in Edo’s governance. Okpebholo’s campaign emphasized infrastructure development and economic revitalization, resonating with voters who sought a change in leadership.
2. Dennis Idahosa
Okpebholo’s running mate, Dennis Idahosa, also scored a win as the deputy governor-elect. A former representative of the Ovia Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Idahosa touted his record of achievements for Edo people, positioning himself as a key player in the state’s leadership.
3. Adams Oshiomhole
Former governor of Edo State and current Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, reaffirmed his influence in the state. After a period of political marginalization, Oshiomhole made a strong comeback by supporting the successful candidates. His role in securing the election victory for the APC reestablishes his political relevance in the region.
4. Philip Shaibu
Despite facing impeachment from the Edo House of Assembly and strained relations with Governor Godwin Obaseki, Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu emerged as a major winner. His defection from the PDP to the APC was instrumental in the party’s victory, proving his ability to navigate political complexities and maintain influence in the state.
5. The APC
The victory of Monday Okpebholo solidifies the APC’s control in Edo State, reinforcing the party’s dominance despite internal divisions. The party’s unity in the face of opposition has given it significant momentum for future electoral contests in the state and beyond.
LOSERS
1. Asue Ighodalo
Asue Ighodalo, the PDP candidate and former Chairman of Sterling Bank, suffered a major political defeat. Despite his business acumen, Ighodalo struggled to build the alliances needed to succeed in Edo’s political landscape. His defeat underscores the challenges of transitioning from corporate leadership to political office.
2. Osarodion Ogie
The former Secretary to the State Government (SSG) and running mate to Ighodalo, Osarodion Ogie, was another notable loser. A seasoned politician and grassroots mobilizer, Ogie failed to leverage his experience to secure a win for the PDP.
3. Godwin Obaseki
Outgoing governor Godwin Obaseki’s failure to secure victory for the PDP marks a significant blow to his political legacy. Once seen as a major political force, Obaseki’s inability to influence the election outcome weakens his standing as a kingmaker in the state’s politics.
4. The PDP
Historically dominant in Edo State, the PDP’s loss in this election raises serious questions about the party’s internal cohesion and electoral strategy. The defeat suggests a disconnect between the party and voters, casting doubt on its future relevance in the state’s political scene.
5. Olumide Akpata
Labour Party candidate and former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Olumide Akpata, finished a distant third in the election with 22,763 votes. His loss further demonstrated the uphill battle for new political players trying to break into Edo’s established political framework.
The results of this election have reshaped the political landscape of Edo State, with key players rising to new heights while others face uncertain futures.
