By-Elections INEC declares APC winners for Edo Central senatorial district


By Elvis Omoregie, Benin 


Dr Joseph Ikpea, candidate of the All Progressive Congress (APC) for the Edo Central Senatorial by-election, has been declared winner and Senator-elect in the Saturday 16th 2025 By-Elections in Edo State.

Announcing the results at the official collation centre in Ubiaja, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Dr. Ikpea of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the winner, having secured a commanding 105,129 votes, to beat his opponent, Joe Okojie of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who polled 15,146 votes.

Speaking with journalists shortly after being declared winner, Senator-elect Ikpea said:

"To God be the glory. This victory belongs first and foremost to the Almighty who has shown us mercy, and to the resilient people of Edo Central who have chosen vision over sentiment, and progress over politics-as-usual.”

He expressed heartfelt appreciation to the electorate for their overwhelming support, noting that their votes were not just for him, but also an expression of trust in Governor Monday Okpebholo and the APC’s developmental agenda for Edo State.

According to him, he reserved special praise for Governor Monday Okpebholo, describing him as a visionary leader whose unwavering commitment to grassroots governance and party unity contributed significantly to the electoral success.

"Governor Okpebholo is a leader of exceptional qualities, strategic, selfless, and deeply connected to the people. His support has been a stabilizing force throughout this journey,” he remarked.

Ikpea also lauded the APC leadership and the by-election campaign council for their coordination, discipline, and tireless efforts.

"This was not a solo effort. I salute the APC leadership at all levels, and our hardworking campaign council, for delivering one of the most organized and effective campaigns this senatorial district has ever seen,” he said.

With the people of Edo Central delivering a clear mandate, Ikpea pledged to serve with vision, transparency, and an unwavering focus on development.

"This victory reaffirms the people’s faith in our capacity to deliver. I will not disappoint them. I will work hand in hand with our governor, our party, and community leaders to ensure that every part of Edo Central feels the impact of quality representation.”

The senator-elect promised to prioritize legislation and interventions in the areas of infrastructure, youth empowerment, education, healthcare, and the strengthening of traditional institutions.

As the dust settles on the by-election, the message is clear: the people of Edo Central have made a bold and united choice for trusted leadership, party strength, and progressive governance.


Breakdown of Votes by Local Government Areas:

Esan Central:

APC – 20,781

PDP – 2,065


Esan North-East:

APC – 20,366

PDP – 4,566


Esan South-East:

APC – 14,873

PDP – 4,036


Esan West:

APC – 39,490

PDP – 2,270


Igueben:

APC – 9,619

PDP – 2,209

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