#EdoDecides2024: APC’s Okpebholo Surges Ahead of Ighodalo by 48,000 Votes with 16 LGAs Declared

The All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has taken a commanding lead in the Edo State governorship election, according to results declared so far by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Okpebholo, who represents Edo Central in the Senate, is currently ahead of his closest rival, Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), by over 48,000 votes.

With results from 16 of the 18 local government areas (LGAs) announced at the INEC Collation Centre in Benin City on Sunday, Okpebholo has secured 244,549 votes.

In comparison, Ighodalo, a well-known figure in the business community, has garnered 195,954 votes. While Okpebholo has claimed victory in 10 of the LGAs declared so far, Ighodalo has won six.

Labour Party (LP) candidate Olumide Akpata is trailing far behind with 13,346 votes, placing him in a distant third position.

The election has attracted widespread attention due to the high stakes involved, with Edo’s political future hanging in the balance.

All eyes are now on the remaining two local government areas yet to be declared, as both the APC and PDP candidates brace for the final outcome.

INEC officials have assured the public of a transparent and credible process, urging calm as the last results trickle in.