Edo Bye-Elections: APC, PDP, Others Unveil Candidates as Race to Replace Okpebholo and Idahosa Heats Up

The political race to fill the vacant Senate seat left by Governor Sen. Monday Okpebholo and the House of Representatives seat vacated by his deputy, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, has officially begun. Nigeria’s two major parties—the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)—have kicked off internal processes in preparation for the upcoming bye-elections.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has also joined the fray, with former House of Representatives member and 2024 Labour Party governorship aspirant, Hon. Sergius Ogun, reportedly working to reposition the party in Edo State. Meanwhile, Paul Okojie, a journalist, has emerged as a prominent contender within the Labour Party.

The PDP is gearing up for a primary election, with notable aspirants such as Hon. John Yakubu, Prince Joe Okojie, and Hon. Friday Itulah vying for the party’s ticket across the two constituencies. On the other hand, the APC has opted for consensus candidates. Hon. Joseph Ikpea was confirmed as the party’s candidate for the Edo Central Senatorial seat, while Hon. Omosede Igbinedion, daughter of the billionaire Esama of Benin, was named the APC candidate for the Ovia Federal Constituency.

Omosede’s candidacy was sealed after a consensus meeting chaired by Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa. He stated that her selection followed broad consultations and reflected a unified stance within the APC in Ovia. According to him, the party aims to provide the constituency with experienced and people-focused representation.

“She is not just a placeholder,” Idahosa noted. “Her previous legislative experience and grassroots connection make her the right fit to represent Ovia effectively.”

Omosede Igbinedion previously served in the House of Representatives from 2015 to 2019 and joined the APC in 2023.

Meanwhile, the APC’s State Working Committee (SWC) also ratified Hon. Joe Ikpea’s candidacy after an extraordinary meeting focused on party unity and strategic electoral decisions. Barr. Peter Uwadiae-Igbinigie, the party’s State Publicity Secretary, confirmed the SWC’s decision, emphasizing the unanimous endorsement of Ikpea by the APC caucus in Edo Central, led by Hon. Sylvester Esangbedo.

The APC, PDP, and other emerging parties are now locked in a competitive race to claim the legislative seats, with each presenting their strongest candidates ahead of the forthcoming bye-elections.