The Edo State governorship election is a tight contest between PDP's Asue Ighodalo and APC's Senator Monday Okpebholo. As INEC uploads 97% of the results, both candidates lead in their strongholds. Allegations of vote-buying emerged, but the election has remained largely peaceful, with a high voter turnout across the state.
The Edo State governorship election is shaping into a closely contested race between the People's Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Asue Ighodalo, and the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo. As the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) uploaded 97% of results to its portal, both candidates are leading in their respective strongholds. Okpebholo dominates in Edo North, while Ighodalo leads in Edo South.
Despite early morning rains, the election saw a large voter turnout across the state. Analysis of results from various local governments shows a tight competition. Ighodalo is ahead in areas like Ikpoba/Okha and Oredo LGAs, while Okpebholo leads in Esan Central and Etsako East LGAs.
Both candidates won their respective polling units, but Labour Party candidate Olumide Akpata suffered a defeat in his unit, polling only two votes.
The largely peaceful election was marked by allegations of vote-buying, especially in Edo Central and North. While the PDP accused the APC of electoral fraud, APC leaders, including former governor Adams Oshiomhole, denied these claims, insisting the turnout reflected support for good governance.
As vote counting continues, tensions remain high, with both parties eyeing victory. INEC is expected to finalize results soon, as observers closely monitor the situation.
