Emmanuel OchayiThe just concluded Edo Election has proven to be one of the most fiercely contested in the state’s history. From the moment polling units opened, it was clear that the stakes were high. Voters across the state flocked to make their voices heard, setting the stage for a pivotal moment in Edo’s political landscape.
With over 2.6 million registered voters and 4,519 polling units, the election was bound to reshape the future of the state. The results, declared by the Returning Officer, Prof. Faruq Adamu Kuta, have left the political sphere in Edo buzzing, with significant winners and losers emerging from the fray.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelOkpebholo’s Rise from Obscurity
The biggest story of the Edo Election is undoubtedly the triumph of Senator Monday Okpebholo. From a relatively unknown figure, Okpebholo has now secured his place as Edo State’s next governor. His campaign centered on infrastructure development and economic revitalization, tapping into the frustrations of the electorate who had grown weary of the previous administration.
“The people of Edo have spoken,” Okpebholo said during his victory speech. “We are ready to transform this state and bring prosperity to every corner.”
His victory represents not only a personal triumph but also a shift in leadership dynamics in the state. Okpebholo’s victory is being viewed as a clear sign that Edo residents are looking for a new direction. Many see his success as the beginning of a new era in Edo politics, one that prioritises development over personal politics.
APC’s Victory and Oshiomhole’s Return to Influence
Another major story from the Edo Election is the resurgence of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Once fractured by internal conflicts, the APC has managed to unify behind Okpebholo’s candidacy, propelling the party to victory. This is not just a win for the party but also for former Governor Adams Oshiomhole, who played a crucial role in securing this outcome.
“The APC is back, stronger and more united,” Oshiomhole declared. “We have shown that, when we work together, we can achieve anything.”
Oshiomhole’s role in the election demonstrates his enduring influence in Edo politics. Despite being sidelined in recent years, he has managed to reassert himself as a key player. His political prowess, combined with the APC’s renewed momentum, has redefined the power dynamics in the state. The victory is a boost for the APC ahead of future elections, solidifying their position as a dominant force in Edo politics.
The Defeat of Obaseki and the PDP
On the other side of the political divide, the Edo Election spelled disaster for Governor Godwin Obaseki and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The outgoing governor had hoped to maintain his influence in the state by backing Asue Ighodalo, the PDP’s gubernatorial candidate. However, the electorate had other plans.
Obaseki’s inability to secure a victory for his party has called into question his political legacy. Despite two terms as governor, his influence seems to have waned, and the election results highlight the disconnect between his administration and the electorate. Ighodalo’s defeat, which saw him finish second with 247,274 votes compared to Okpebholo’s 291,667, underscores this.
This election loss is particularly painful for the PDP, which has historically held a strong presence in Edo. The party’s failure to mobilise voters effectively, combined with internal divisions, has left many questioning its future in the state. The loss is a significant blow to the PDP, and the party will need to regroup if it hopes to remain relevant in Edo politics.
Defections and Political Manoeuvring
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Edo Election was the role of defections and political manoeuvring in shaping the outcome. Philip Shaibu, the outgoing Deputy Governor, was one of the key figures who benefited from these shifts. After defecting from the PDP to the APC, Shaibu played a critical role in securing the victory for his new party.
“Politics is about timing and alliances,” Shaibu remarked. “I made the move when I felt it was right, and today, we have victory to show for it.”
Shaibu’s decision to switch allegiances, despite his prior disputes with Governor Obaseki, proved to be a masterstroke. His political savvy has earned him a reputation as a skilled operator in Edo politics, and many are now speculating about his future role in the state.
The Implications of the Election
The Edo Election has significant implications for the state and beyond. For the APC, the victory not only cements their control over Edo but also boosts their momentum heading into future national elections. The party’s ability to overcome internal divisions and present a united front is a critical lesson for other political actors in Nigeria.
For the PDP, the loss raises serious questions about the party’s strategy and leadership. The defeat highlights the challenges of remaining relevant in an evolving political landscape, and the party will need to address its internal issues if it hopes to regain its foothold in Edo.
As the dust settles on the Edo Election, it is clear that this was more than just a vote for a new governor. It was a referendum on leadership, strategy, and the future of politics in Edo State. The results have reshaped the political terrain, with new faces emerging and old ones fading into the background. For better or worse, the people of Edo have charted a new course, and the state’s political future will be defined by the events of this historic election.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
