Edo Central Votes To Elect New Senator Today

Edo Central residents are casting their votes today to choose a new senator after the seat became vacant when Monday Okpebholo moved to the state’s top office as governor in September 2024.

The by-election will decide who represents the district in the Senate and carries the political weight left behind.

The contest has attracted four major parties. The Social Democratic Party, African Democratic Congress, Peoples Democratic Party, and All Progressives Congress all have candidates in the race. The Labour Party was barred from participating after the electoral body ruled that it failed to follow due process during its primary.

The Social Democratic Party is represented by Isidahomhen, a journalist and publisher with past experience as a governorship aspirant. He has spoken about focusing his campaign on children’s welfare and community development. Observers say his popularity within the party is strong, but he may not have the financial reach of other candidates.

The African Democratic Congress is fielding Ogun, a two-time former federal lawmaker with decades of experience in the oil sector. He studied law at the University of Benin and attended Lagos Business School. His political strength is tied to grassroots support, and his entry has made the race tighter for the two dominant parties.

The Peoples Democratic Party is banking on Okojie, a former commissioner and special adviser on agriculture. He emerged as the party’s candidate after winning a keenly contested primary against other experienced politicians. His track record includes scholarship programmes and widow support initiatives, and he has pledged to strengthen farming communities through training and access to modern tools.

The All Progressives Congress has Ikpea as its flagbearer. He is one of the founding members of the party in the state and has held key positions, including commissioner for minerals, oil and gas, as well as chairman of Esan South-East local government. His time in office is remembered for infrastructure projects such as schools and health centres, which built his reputation at the grassroots.

The outcome of today’s poll will determine who fills the vacant seat and could reshape the political direction of Edo Central ahead of the 2027 general elections. Voters are expected to decide whether to maintain dominance by one of the traditional power blocs or open the way for a fresh voice in the Senate.