BENIN CITY – The All Progressives Congress (APC) has cemented its growing influence in Edo State, sweeping both the Central Senatorial District and the Ovia Federal Constituency bye-elections held on Saturday, August 16, 2025. The victories mark a significant political win for the party, reinforcing its presence ahead of the state’s upcoming political landscape.
APC’s Dr. Joseph Ikpea Secures Edo Central Senatorial Seat
In a decisive victory, Dr. Joseph Ikpea of the APC was declared the winner of the Edo Central Senatorial District bye-election. According to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Dr. Ikpea secured a commanding 105,129 votes, soundly defeating his closest rival, Prince Joe Okojie of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who polled 15,146 votes.
Dr. Ikpea, a native of Ewatto in Esan South East Local Government Area, will succeed Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, who vacated the seat following his victory in the September 21, 2025 Governorship Election. The APC’s dominance was evident across all local government areas in the district, where it consistently outperformed the PDP.
Barrister Gabriella Omosede Igbinedion Claims Ovia Federal Constituency
The APC’s success continued in the Ovia Federal Constituency, where Barrister Gabriella Omosede Igbinedion was announced as the new representative. The returning officer, Mr. Clement Ighodaro, declared that Igbinedion won in an emphatic fashion, securing 77,053 votes.
Igbinedion’s victory was described by observers as a one-sided contest, as her closest challenger, Mr. Johnny Aikpitanyi of the PDP, only managed to secure 3,838 votes. Dr. Sandra Asemota of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) trailed with 925 votes. This victory further solidifies the APC’s grip on key political positions within Edo State, building on a series of recent by-election successes.
