Today, September 21, 2024, the people of Edo State are headed to the polls to choose their next governor. This election marks a pivotal moment in the state’s political history, and the stakes are high. With three major contenders representing the biggest political parties in Nigeria, the race is intense. The three main candidates are Asue Ighodalo of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party (LP). As they battle it out, one pressing question looms: Who will win Edo’s three-horse governorship race?
Asue Ighodalo, the candidate from the ruling PDP, is a prominent lawyer and former chairman of Sterling Bank. His background in finance and governance makes him a formidable contender. Ighodalo has built a reputation as a man of integrity and experience, having served on several boards and government committees. His campaign emphasizes economic reforms, job creation, and improving critical sectors like healthcare, education, and infrastructure. He plans to forge partnerships with the private sector to boost development in Edo State.
Asue Ighodalo’s strength lies in the fact that PDP is the incumbent party. The current administration, led by Governor Godwin Obaseki, has completed several projects that Ighodalo can point to as evidence of progress. However, there are frustrations among some voters regarding the pace of development. Areas like healthcare, education, and road infrastructure still need significant attention. This leaves voters wondering: Will the PDP’s achievements be enough to keep them in power, or will Edo voters seek change?
The APC candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, is currently representing Edo Central in the Senate. He has strong grassroots support, particularly in the rural areas. Okpebholo’s campaign has focused on unity within the APC, as the party has experienced internal division in recent years. However, he presents himself as the man who can bring the party together and appeal to a broad spectrum of voters, from urban dwellers to rural farmers.
Okpebholo’s message of change and economic development resonates with voters looking for fresh leadership after years of PDP rule. His promise to boost tourism and tap into Edo State’s rich cultural history and natural resources is particularly appealing to those who believe the state’s potential has been underutilized. He has also emphasized creating jobs, especially for the youth, and improving security, a major concern in parts of the state.
Olumide Akpata, representing the Labour Party, is the third major contender. A former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Akpata brings a breath of fresh air to the race. He is new to the political arena but has captured the attention of many young voters, civil society groups, and professionals with his reformist and anti-corruption agenda. His message of transparency, job creation through technology, and a focus on entrepreneurship has struck a chord with the youth, who are eager for change.
However, Akpata faces the challenge of taking on more established political parties like the PDP and APC. The Labour Party, while growing in popularity, especially among younger Nigerians, lacks the deep-rooted political structures of its rivals. Still, with the increasing popularity of Labour Party candidates across Nigeria, Akpata’s candidacy cannot be written off. If the youth turn out in large numbers, Akpata could be a surprise contender.
The outcome of this election will depend on several critical factors.
One of the most significant factors in this election will be voter turnout. Edo State has seen a trend of low voter participation in recent elections. In 2020, only about 27% of registered voters turned up to vote, a sharp decline from the 32% turnout in 2016. Many voters are disillusioned by the political process, frustrated by economic hardship, and afraid of violence. If voter turnout remains low, it could significantly impact the final results, especially in areas where political thuggery or violence may intimidate voters. However, if the youth, women, and first-time voters turn out in large numbers, it could shift the balance, possibly in favor of candidates like Olumide Akpata, who appeals to younger voters.
In the days leading up to the election, reports of violence and tension have been rampant. Clashes between rival political supporters have occurred, and there are concerns that political thugs could disrupt the election. The involvement of cult groups and the proliferation of small arms has only added to the tension. Eight local government areas, including Ikpoba-Okha, Oredo, Egor, and Esan South East, have been identified as potential hotspots for election-day violence【21†source】. These threats of violence may discourage voters from coming out, especially in affected areas, which could play into the hands of certain candidates.
All three candidates have made bold promises to improve the economy, create jobs, and boost development. However, the electorate will be keen to see how realistic these promises are. Ighodalo’s emphasis on public-private partnerships could be a strong selling point if voters believe in his ability to attract investment. Okpebholo’s plans to tap into Edo’s rich resources and promote tourism are appealing, but he must convince voters he can deliver. Akpata’s focus on technology-driven jobs and entrepreneurship speaks to the youth, but can he overcome the political machinery of the APC and PDP?
As the ruling party, the PDP has the advantage of incumbency. Ighodalo can rely on the achievements of Governor Obaseki, who has delivered some developmental projects during his tenure. However, incumbency can be a double-edged sword. While some voters may prefer continuity, others may see the election as an opportunity to express dissatisfaction with the pace of progress in the state. The question is whether voters will choose to stick with the known or opt for change.
A crucial aspect of this election will be how free and fair the process is. There are concerns about vote-buying and voter inducement, with reports of politicians distributing cash and gifts to entice voters【21†source】. Additionally, allegations of federal interference in favor of certain candidates have raised fears of electoral manipulation. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has a significant role to play in ensuring that the election is transparent and credible. Any signs of rigging or bias could lead to a crisis of confidence in the results, potentially sparking post-election violence.
This election represents a critical turning point for Edo State. The three main candidates, Asue Ighodalo, Monday Okpebholo, and Olumide Akpata, offer voters distinct choices, each with their own vision for the future of the state. While the PDP has the advantage of incumbency, the APC is pushing for a comeback, and the Labour Party is gaining momentum with younger voters.
As we head into election day, the people of Edo have a unique opportunity to decide their future. The question on everyone’s mind is: Will they stick with the PDP’s legacy of continuity, give the APC a chance at renewal, or embrace the fresh perspective of the Labour Party?
Ultimately, the power lies in the hands of Edo voters. Whichever candidate emerges victorious, this election will shape the direction of Edo State for years to come. Let’s hope for a peaceful, free, and fair process that truly reflects the will of the people.
