By Muhammad Mamman
the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Joseph Ikpea of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the victor of the Edo Central Senatorial District by-election held on August 16, 2025. The announcement was made by INEC Returning Officer, Prof. Kingsley Omo-Iwoze, in the early hours of Sunday at Ubiaja, the administrative hub of Esan South-East Local Government Area.
Ikpea secured an impressive 105,129 votes, overwhelmingly defeating his closest rival, Joe Okojie of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who garnered 15,146 votes. “I, Prof. Omo-Iwoze, certify that Joseph Ikpea of the APC, having met the legal requirements, is hereby declared the winner of the 2025 Edo Central Senatorial by-election,” the Returning Officer proclaimed.
In an impassioned victory speech, Senator-elect Ikpea dedicated his triumph to God and the people of Edo Central, praising their choice of “vision over sentiment and progress over politics-as-usual.” He vowed to collaborate closely with Governor Monday Okpebholo, whom he described as a “strategic, selfless leader deeply connected to the people,” to deliver impactful representation across the district.
Ikpea outlined an ambitious agenda, prioritizing legislation and initiatives to enhance infrastructure, youth empowerment, education, healthcare, and the preservation of traditional institutions. His victory fills the vacancy left by Governor Okpebholo, who previously held the senatorial seat before his election as Edo State Governor.
