APC’s Joseph Ikpea Wins Edo Central Senatorial By-Election in Landslide Victory
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has recorded a sweeping victory in the Edo Central senatorial by-election, with its candidate, Dr. Joseph Ikpea, emerging triumphant in a contest widely described as one-sided.
The election, which was conducted on Saturday, August 16, 2025, followed the declaration of Edo Central’s senatorial seat vacant after Monday Okpebholo, who formerly represented the district in the Senate, assumed office as Governor of Edo State in November 2024.
Announcing the results on Sunday, the Returning Officer, Prof. Kingsley Omo-Iwoze, said Ikpea polled a commanding 105,129 votes to defeat his closest challenger, Joe Okojie of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who secured only 15,146 votes.
The outcome handed APC a margin of victory of nearly 90,000 votes, reaffirming its dominance in the senatorial district.
Ikpea’s Reaction and Campaign Focus
In his acceptance remarks, Ikpea described the outcome as a collective victory for the people of Edo Central.
He said the election results demonstrated a strong desire for “visionary representation, responsive governance, and practical solutions” to the challenges facing the senatorial district.
“This mandate is a sacred responsibility. It is not about me, but about our collective aspiration for development and progress,” he declared. “I dedicate this victory to God and to the resilient men and women of Edo Central who placed their trust in me and in our great party, the APC.”
Ikpea pledged to focus on infrastructure development, quality education, youth empowerment, healthcare delivery, and support for traditional institutions. He also vowed to collaborate closely with Governor Okpebholo to ensure the district benefits fully from both state and federal government programmes.
APC’s Strength in Edo
Political observers say Ikpea’s overwhelming victory reflects the APC’s growing grassroots support in Edo Central, bolstered by Governor Okpebholo’s influence and the party’s strong organizational presence in the state.
Many analysts believe the outcome has further weakened the PDP’s foothold in the district, as the wide margin of defeat highlighted declining voter confidence in the opposition.
Party leaders and supporters have hailed the win as another significant milestone for APC ahead of the 2027 general elections, with some describing the result as “a vote of confidence” in the leadership of Governor Okpebholo and the policies of the ruling party.
Smooth Conduct of Polls
Reports from observers and security agencies indicate that the by-election was largely peaceful, with no major incidents of violence recorded across polling units. INEC officials were praised for ensuring timely distribution of election materials and transparent collation of results.
The PDP candidate, Joe Okojie, has not yet publicly reacted to the outcome, but party insiders hinted that the opposition may review its strategy in light of the heavy defeat.
Significance of the Victory
With this result, the APC not only consolidates its dominance in Edo politics but also strengthens its representation in the National Assembly. For Ikpea, the victory provides an opportunity to shape legislative priorities for Edo Central and align the district more closely with both state and federal development agendas.
As Edo continues to adjust to Governor Okpebholo’s administration, Ikpea’s presence in the Senate is expected to play a pivotal role in attracting investments, promoting youth inclusion, and driving infrastructural projects that could redefine the district’s future.
