Edo 2024 Governorship Race: Candidates and Key Issues Ahead of September Election
The Edo State governorship election, set for Saturday, September 21, 2024, has stirred significant interest and anticipation across Nigeria. With seventeen candidates from various political parties vying for the governorship position, this election is shaping up to be one of the most contentious in recent history. The leading candidates—Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party (LP)—are all prominent figures with extensive backgrounds in politics, law, and business.
According to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), there are 2,629,025 registered voters in Edo State, with an impressive 2,249,780 Permanent Voter’s Cards (PVCs) already collected. This leaves only 379,245 PVCs uncollected, or about 14.43% of the total. Voting is anticipated to take place in 4,519 polling units scattered across the state, ensuring comprehensive coverage and accessibility for the electorate.
The Major Contenders
The spotlight is undoubtedly on the three main candidates:
- All Progressives Congress (APC) – Senator Monday Okpebholo: Currently serving as a senator representing Edo Central senatorial district, Senator Okpebholo brings a wealth of legislative experience and political acumen to the table. His campaign has largely focused on infrastructure development and improving the state's educational system. Within the APC's robust political machinery, Okpebholo is seen as a formidable candidate who has the potential to steer Edo State towards a promising future.
- Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) – Asue Ighodalo: Known for his tenure as the former chairman of Sterling Bank and his role as an economic adviser to both former Governor Adams Oshiomhole and current Governor Godwin Obaseki, Ighodalo is hailed as a financial expert. His campaign focuses on harnessing Edo State's economic potential through large-scale investments and youth empowerment programs. As the PDP candidate, Ighodalo’s strategy revolves around leveraging his financial expertise to bring transformative change to the state's economy.
- Labour Party (LP) – Olumide Akpata: Former national chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association and a top executive at Templars law firm, Akpata is making a strong case for legal reforms and governance accountability. His campaign has resonated particularly well with the younger demographic, emphasizing transparency and social justice. Akpata's vision for Edo includes ensuring that the rule of law is upheld and that government institutions operate with the highest level of integrity.
The Other Candidates
Beyond the three frontrunners, a variety of other candidates bring distinct perspectives and backgrounds to the contest:
- Action Alliance (AA) – Tom Iseghohi: Former Group Managing Director of the Transnational Corporation of Nigeria and Chairman of Emerging Global Capital, Iseghohi's campaign is focused on leveraging his extensive business background to foster economic growth.
- New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) – Azena Azemhe Friday: As the South-South regional pastor of Omega Fire Ministries, Friday brings a faith-based approach to his political campaign, emphasizing moral leadership and community development.
- All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) – Osifo Isiah: Having served as the chief of staff to former Governor Oserheimen Osunbor and chairman of Uhunmwonde Local Government Council, Isiah aims to utilize his administrative experience to strengthen local governance.
- Others: The election also features candidates from lesser-known parties such as Ugiagbe Sylvester (APM), Areleogbe Osalumese (APP), Kingson Akhime Afere (ADP), Udoh David (AAC), Akhalamhe Amiemenoghena (ZLP), Osirame Edeipo (BP), Iyere Kennedy (AP), Osarenren Derek Izedonmwen (ADC), Patience Key Ndidi (PRP), Paul Okungbowa Ovbokhan (YPP), and Aner Abdullahi Aliu (SDP). Each candidate seeks to carve out a niche by emphasizing unique elements of their platforms, ranging from educational reforms to social justice issues.
Issues at Stake
As voters head to the polls, several key issues will likely dominate the electoral discourse. Economic development remains a top priority, particularly in light of the state's potential for growth in industries such as agriculture, technology, and education. The candidates' capacity to outline clear, actionable plans for job creation and investment will be critical in winning voter support.
Security is another significant concern for the electorate. With the rise in crime rates and community tensions, voters are eager to hear how each candidate intends to enhance public safety and foster a peaceful environment for all residents. Governance and transparency are also pivotal issues. The electorate demands accountable leadership, insisting that elected officials operate with integrity and transparency, ensuring public resources are managed effectively and fairly.
The issue of youth empowerment cannot be overstated. With a considerable portion of the state's population being young, candidates who can propose substantial policies for education, job opportunities, and entrepreneurial support are likely to resonate more with this demographic.
The Role of INEC
As the independent body responsible for overseeing elections in Nigeria, INEC has a critical role to play in ensuring the 2024 Edo governorship election is conducted fairly and transparently. The collection of over two million PVCs is a testament to INEC's effort in mobilizing and preparing the electorate. Efficiently managing the 4,519 polling units will require meticulous planning and coordination, especially in rural areas where accessibility can pose challenges.
INEC has also implemented measures to address the issue of uncollected PVCs, making concerted efforts to reach the 14.43% of voters who have yet to pick up their cards. Engaging these individuals is crucial for maximizing voter turnout and ensuring that the elections reflect the will of the broadest possible spectrum of the electorate.
Conclusion
The 2024 Edo State governorship election promises to be a historic event. With a wide array of candidates from diverse backgrounds, the people of Edo State are presented with multiple visions for their future. As the campaign season intensifies, it is imperative for the electorate to critically assess each candidate's plans, track records, and commitment to addressing the pressing issues facing the state today.
As residents gear up to vote, the emphasis on economic development, security, governance, and youth empowerment will ultimately dictate the direction Edo State takes in the coming years. The role of entities like INEC in facilitating a smooth, transparent, and fair election cannot be understated, as they lay the foundation for a credible and democratic process.
The contest among Senator Monday Okpebholo, Asue Ighodalo, and Olumide Akpata, along with other candidates, will offer Edo State a chance to choose a leader who can truly address the multifaceted challenges and harness the opportunities that lie ahead.