(DDM) – The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Dr. Joseph Ikpea of the All Progressives Congress (APC) the winner of the Edo Central senatorial by-election held on Saturday.
DDM gathered that the results were announced in the early hours of Sunday by the Returning Officer, Professor Kingsley Omo-Iwoze, at the collation centre in Ubiaja, Esan South-East Local Government Area of Edo State.
Ikpea secured a total of 105,129 votes to defeat his closest rival, Joe Okojie of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who polled 15,146 votes.
The margin of victory underscores the APC’s strong influence in Edo Central and highlights PDP’s dwindling strength in the district.
Speaking after his victory, Senator-elect Ikpea thanked God and the people of Edo Central for what he described as overwhelming support.
He said the votes cast for him were not just personal but a vote of confidence in Governor Monday Okpebholo and the APC’s developmental agenda in the state.
Ikpea described Governor Okpebholo as a visionary leader whose commitment to grassroots governance and party unity helped secure victory.
He also praised the APC leadership and the by-election campaign council for their coordination, discipline, and tireless efforts throughout the election process.
According to Ikpea, his legislative priorities will focus on infrastructure, youth empowerment, education, healthcare, and strengthening traditional institutions across the district.
The victory is seen as a major boost for APC ahead of future political contests in Edo State, particularly with the governorship election looming in 2024.
Political analysts note that Ikpea’s win reinforces the APC’s rising momentum in Edo, which had long been considered a PDP stronghold.
The PDP once dominated Edo politics, producing governors and legislators across all levels.
However, its declining popularity has become more visible in recent years as defections and internal disputes weakened its base.
In contrast, APC has gradually strengthened its grassroots structures in Edo Central, capitalising on the divisions within PDP.
The result is also being interpreted as a show of faith in Governor Okpebholo’s leadership style, which has emphasised unity and development.
Observers say Ikpea’s landslide victory will give APC leverage in Edo Central as it prepares for the bigger battle in the next general elections.
The by-election itself was considered a litmus test for APC’s ability to consolidate power in areas previously dominated by PDP.
Many political watchers believe the outcome signals a shift in Edo’s political balance, with APC now holding a clear advantage.
For residents of Edo Central, Ikpea’s promise to prioritise education, healthcare, and youth development will be closely monitored in the coming months.
Expectations remain high that the new senator will deliver on his commitments and channel federal support into the district’s pressing needs.
For now, APC’s victory has reshaped the narrative in Edo Central, proving that the ruling party at the federal level has extended its dominance deeper into the state’s heartland.