The Edo State election has reshaped the political dynamics, highlighting the rise of new power brokers like Monday Okpebholo and leaving established figures like Obaseki and the PDP in a weakened position.
The Edo State election has brought about significant shifts in the political landscape, with clear winners and losers emerging from the contest.
As the dust settles, it becomes essential to analyse the impact of the election on various political actors and parties and on the broader socio-political fabric of the state.
Winners
1. Monday Okpebholo:
Monday Okpebholo. [Facebook]
The most obvious winner is Monday Okpebholo, the governor-elect. His victory solidifies his position as a rising star in Edo State politics, propelling him from relative obscurity to a commanding role in governance.
His campaign, which emphasised infrastructure development and economic revitalisation, resonated with voters tired of stagnation and eager for change.
Okpebholo’s success is a personal triumph and a signal of the electorate’s desire for a shift in leadership dynamics.
2. The All Progressives Congress (APC):
Senator Monday Okpebholo [Presidency]
Okpebholo’s victory is also significant for the APC, cementing the party’s influence in the state.
Despite internal divisions within the party, the APC managed to unify behind Okpebholo, presenting a formidable challenge to the opposition.
His win reinforces the APC’s hold in the region, giving the party momentum heading into future state and national elections.
3. Grassroots Politics:
Edo election: Some PWDs encounter difficulty locating polling units in Oredo
Another winner in this election is grassroots engagement. Okpebholo’s campaign capitalised on grassroots mobilisation, relying heavily on community leaders, local influencers, and a well-coordinated door-to-door strategy.
This victory showcases the power of direct voter engagement and reminds us that elections are won on the ground, not just in the media or among political elites.
READ ALSO: 5 things to know about Edo State governor-elect Monday Okpebholo
Losers
1. The People’s Democratic Party (PDP):
L-R: Mrs Ifeyinwa Ighodalo, Asue Ighodalo and Umar Damagum. [Facebook]
The PDP, historically a dominant force in Edo State, has suffered a significant loss. This defeat could signal internal challenges within the party, particularly concerning its ability to connect with voters and present a cohesive strategy.
The loss has also raised questions about the PDP’s leadership and relevance in the state’s evolving political landscape.
2. Governor Godwin Obaseki:
Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State [Facebook]
Obaseki, the outgoing governor and a prominent figure within the PDP, emerges as a notable loser. His inability to secure a victory for his party casts doubt on his political influence and legacy in the state. As a two-term governor, Obaseki had hoped to position himself as a kingmaker, but this election has shown that his endorsement was not enough to sway the electorate.
3. Party Defectors:
Several high-profile defectors from the APC to the PDP, hoping to ride the wave of change, also suffered a loss. Their decision to switch allegiances was not rewarded at the ballot box, and many now find themselves politically sidelined.
