The All Progressives Congress (APC) has secured a resounding victory in the Edo Central Senatorial by-election as Dr. Joseph Ikpea was officially declared winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the early hours of Sunday, August 17, 2025.
INEC Returning Officer, Prof. Kingsley Omo-Iwoze, announced the results from Ubiaja, the administrative headquarters of Esan South-East Local Government Area. Ikpea garnered a commanding total of 105,129 votes, decisively defeating his closest rival, Joe Okojie of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who polled 15,146 votes.
“This is the declaration. I, Prof. Omo-Iwoze, hereby certify that I am the Returning Officer for the 2025 Edo Central Senatorial District bye-election, held on the 16th day of August, 2025. That Ikpea Joseph of APC, having satisfied the requirements of the law, is hereby declared winner of the election,” the Returning Officer stated.
Speaking shortly after his declaration, Senator-elect Ikpea expressed deep gratitude to God and the people of Edo Central, stating: “This victory reaffirms the people’s faith in our capacity to deliver. I will not disappoint them. I will work hand in hand with our governor, our party, and community leaders to ensure that every part of Edo Central feels the impact of quality representation.”
He also praised Governor Monday Okpebholo, calling him “a leader of exceptional qualities, strategic, selfless, and deeply connected to the people,” and credited the governor’s support as a stabilizing force throughout the campaign.