Dr. Joseph Ikpea, candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has been declared the winner of the Edo Central Senatorial Bye-Election by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The result was 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.
According to the official results, Ikpea secured 105,129 votes, defeating his closest rival, Joe Okojie of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who garnered 15,146 votes.
“I, Prof. Omo-Iwoze, hereby certify that I am the Returning Officer for the 2025 Edo Central Senatorial District bye-election held on August 16, 2025,” the declaration read. “That Joseph Ikpea of the APC, having satisfied the requirements of the law, is hereby declared the winner of the election.”
In his post-election remarks, Ikpea attributed his victory to divine providence and the overwhelming support of the people of Edo Central.
“This is a victory for vision over sentiment, and for progress over politics-as-usual,” he said. “I am humbled by the trust reposed in me and will not disappoint the people.”
He pledged to work closely with community leaders, his party, and the state government to ensure effective representation, promising to prioritize infrastructure, youth empowerment, education, healthcare, and strengthening traditional institutions.
Ikpea also praised Governor Monday Okpebholo, whose election earlier this year led to the Senate seat becoming vacant.
He described the governor as a “strategic and selfless leader”, and credited him as a key influence in his campaign.
“Governor Okpebholo’s leadership has been a stabilizing force. His unwavering support contributed immensely to our victory.”
The Edo Central senatorial seat became vacant after Monday Okpebholo, the former senator representing the district, was elected and sworn in as Governor of Edo State.
INEC subsequently declared the seat vacant and scheduled the August 16 bye-election to fill the position.
