The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially declared Joseph Ikpea as the winner of the Edo Central Senatorial District by-election held on Saturday, August 16, 2025. Prof. Kingsley Omo-Iwoze, the INEC Returning Officer, made the announcement in the early hours of Sunday in Ubiaja, the administrative center of Esan South-East Local Government Area.
Ikpea secured 105,129 votes, defeating his closest competitor, Joe Okojie of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who garnered 15,146 votes. Prof. Omo-Iwoze confirmed that Ikpea met all legal requirements for the position, declaring him the winner of the election.
Shortly after his victory was announced, Ikpea thanked God and the people of the district for their trust in him. He highlighted that this win was a triumph of vision over sentiment and progress over outdated politics.
“I will not let the people down. I will collaborate with our governor, the party, and community leaders to bring real change to every corner of Edo Central,” Ikpea pledged.
The senator-elect also expressed gratitude to Governor Monday Okpebholo for his unwavering support throughout the election process. Okpebholo, who vacated the seat to become the governor of Edo State, is praised by Ikpea for his leadership qualities and strategic vision for the region.
Ikpea’s key priorities in office will include improving infrastructure, empowering youth, enhancing education and healthcare, and reinforcing traditional institutions.
The by-election was necessitated by the vacancy left after the election of Governor Okpebholo, who previously held the senatorial seat.
The people of Edo Central have now entrusted Ikpea with the task of representing their interests at the Senate.
