#EdoDecides2024: How APC’s Okpebholo floored PDP’s Ighodalo with 44,012 votes
Senator Monday Okpebholo of the APC won the Edo State 2024 governorship election, receiving 291,667 votes to Dr. Asue Ighodalo of the PDP’s 247,655. Okpebholo’s victory margin was 44,012 votes, marking one of the state’s most competitive elections.
The Labour Party’s Olumide Akpata finished third with 22,763 votes. An ecstatic Okpebholo pledged to transform Edo State, stating, “A new Edo is rising.”
Despite his victory, complaints emerged from Governor Obaseki and the PDP Campaign Council regarding issues during the collation process, urging INEC to address these concerns.
Okpebholo secured 11 out of 18 local councils, notably dominating Edo North while narrowly losing in Edo Central and South. He garnered 130,684 votes in Edo North against Ighodalo’s 76,959.
Governor Obaseki criticized the election’s legitimacy, urging calm among residents and emphasizing the need for peaceful resolution of grievances.
APC Chairman Ganduje congratulated Okpebholo, asserting that his victory reflects public confidence in the party. Meanwhile, PDP officials expressed outrage over alleged election irregularities, calling for legal action to challenge the results.
Protests erupted among PDP supporters in Benin, accusing INEC of manipulating the election outcome. Civil society organizations also voiced concerns about the transparency of the results.
As the political landscape shifts, the election has significant implications for key players, including President Tinubu and former Governor Oshiomhole, who both celebrated Okpebholo’s win as a pivotal moment for Edo State.
