Okpebholo and Ighodalo in Close Contest as INEC Uploads Election Results

INEC has begun uploading results in a closely contested race between Ighodalo and Okpebholo. Stay updated on the latest developments in this tight political battle.

Intense Competition in Edo State: Asue Ighodalo of PDP and Senator Monday Okpebholo of APC in a Close Race as INEC Approaches Full Upload of Governorship Election Results

The 2024 governorship election in Edo State is emerging as a highly competitive contest between two prominent candidates: Asue Ighodalo representing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Senator Monday Okpebholo from the All Progressives Congress (APC). As the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) continues to upload results from polling units throughout the state, both candidates find themselves in a closely contested struggle for the governorship position.

At the time of this report, INEC had uploaded nearly 97 percent of the results to its Results Viewing (IReV) portal, offering insights into the election’s progression. While the final results are still pending, preliminary analysis of the uploaded data indicates a regional disparity in support for the two leading candidates, with each enjoying strong backing in distinct areas of Edo State.

Initial Hurdles and Voter Participation

The governorship election held in Edo State on Saturday saw a notable voter turnout, despite facing some logistical obstacles. Early morning rainfall in various regions delayed the distribution of voting materials to numerous polling stations, raising concerns about potential voter disenfranchisement. However, as the weather improved later in the day, the electoral process gained traction, and a significant number of voters were able to cast their votes.

Observers remarked that the rain, initially perceived as a setback, did not dissuade committed voters from fulfilling their civic duties. By mid-morning, voting materials and electoral officials had reached most polling stations, allowing the election to proceed with relative efficiency. Reports from different polling units indicated a peaceful atmosphere, with security personnel present to maintain order and prevent any incidents of violence or electoral misconduct.

INEC officials received commendations for their commitment to conducting the election with transparency and efficiency, despite facing delays due to adverse weather conditions. Voters throughout the state, from urban hubs such as Benin City to more rural locales, demonstrated a strong enthusiasm for selecting the next leader of Edo State. Political analysts suggest that the significant voter turnout reflects the high stakes of this election, as the citizens of Edo seek a governor capable of addressing the state’s socio-economic issues.

APC Leads in Edo North, PDP Dominates Edo South

The election results currently available on INEC’s IReV platform offer an initial overview of the voting trends across the three senatorial districts of Edo State: Edo North, Edo Central, and Edo South. Preliminary analyses indicate that the APC candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, is ahead in the Edo North Senatorial District. This outcome is not entirely unexpected, given that Edo North has traditionally been a stronghold for the APC. Okpebholo, who has previously served as a senator for the region, enjoys substantial support, particularly in areas where his political impact has been significant over the years.

Edo North comprises several local government areas, including Etsako East, Etsako West, Owan East, Owan West, and Akoko-Edo. Historically, these areas have favored the APC in past elections, and Okpebholo’s reputation as a lawmaker who has fulfilled his commitments appears to resonate with voters. His campaign has emphasized the need for improved infrastructure, job creation, and enhanced security in Edo North, which seems to have appealed to the electorate.

Conversely, the PDP candidate, Asue Ighodalo, is leading in the Edo South Senatorial District, which is the most populous of the three districts. Edo South includes Benin City, the state capital, along with several other densely populated regions. Ighodalo, a well-known figure in both the business and political arenas of the state, has utilized his influence to garner support from voters in the southern part of Edo. His campaign has concentrated on addressing local concerns and promoting development initiatives.

Edo South has long been recognized as a stronghold for the PDP, and Ighodalo’s rising popularity in the area seems to reinforce this established trend. The PDP’s influence in this region has been enhanced by the backing of prominent political figures and influential organizations, who have rallied in support of Ighodalo’s candidacy. His message advocating for change and progress has particularly resonated with younger voters, who seek leadership capable of revitalizing the state’s economy and creating better future opportunities.

A Competitive Landscape in Edo Central

In contrast to the clear support seen in Edo North and Edo South, the dynamics in the Edo Central Senatorial District are more ambiguous. This district, which includes areas such as Esan Central, Esan North-East, Esan South-East, and Igueben, is viewed as a battleground where both candidates are competing for dominance. Historically, Edo Central has been more competitive than the other districts, with voters frequently divided between the PDP and APC.

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Asue Ighodalo’s campaign team has diligently worked to garner votes in Edo Central, focusing on the PDP’s achievements in the district and promoting his vision for enhancing local infrastructure and social services. Conversely, Senator Okpebholo has also made significant strides in the district, advocating for continuity and stability. With both candidates attracting substantial support in the region, Edo Central may ultimately play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the governorship election.

The Role of INEC and Commitment to Transparency

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has received widespread recognition from both local and international observers for its commitment to ensuring a credible and transparent electoral process. The electoral body has introduced several technological advancements, including the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the Results Viewing Portal (IReV), aimed at enhancing the integrity of the election process. These innovations have facilitated real-time uploading and monitoring of election results, significantly mitigating the risk of electoral malpractice.

As INEC progresses with the upload of the remaining election results, scrutiny intensifies regarding how the final numbers will materialize. The APC seems to be leading in Edo North, while the PDP is showing strength in Edo South. However, the final results from Edo Central may be crucial in influencing the election’s outcome. Political analysts are attentively monitoring these developments, as this election is anticipated to establish the framework for future gubernatorial contests in the state.

The Edo State governorship election exemplifies the dynamic democratic ethos in Nigeria, where citizens are actively engaged in the selection of their leaders. As the competition escalates between Asue Ighodalo of the PDP and Senator Monday Okpebholo of the APC, the ultimate result remains unpredictable. Nevertheless, it is evident that the residents of Edo State are resolute in their desire to forge a new path for their future.

With INEC nearing the completion of the results upload, all attention is directed towards the commission as it prepares to declare the victor of this fiercely contested election. Both the PDP and APC express confidence in their prospects, yet only time will reveal who will prevail and assume the responsibility of governing Edo State for the forthcoming four years.