Major things to know about ‘popular candidates’ in the ‘three-horse race’

In less than 24 hours, the good people of Edo State will be going to the polls to elect the new executive tenant of the Dennis Osadebey House for a constitutional four-year term and as the successor of the incumbent Governor Godwin Obaseki.

As the countdown winds down and preparations by the umpire – Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) – and other stakeholders continue in top gears, many believe the off-cycle gubernatorial election on Saturday, September 21, 2024, will be a ‘three-horse race.’ 

Many political analysts and other Nigerians who are interested in what the future has in stock for the people of Edo State from their Saturday’s decision believe that polls will be keenly contested by the standard-bearers of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, Asue Ighodalo; the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) at the centre, Monday Okpebholo; and Olumide Akpata from the third force that almost pulls an upset in the 2023 Presidential election – Labour Party.

Meanwhile, Tribune Online, in an analysis of the major factors that may either make or mar the chances of the three front-runners at the poll, explained that no fewer than 17 political parties and their candidates will be contesting the election across the state’s 18 local government areas.

Likewise, INEC, while disclosing its readiness for the election, confirmed that 2,249,780 registered voters, representing 85.57% of the 2,629,025 total registered voters, have collected their Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs) across 4,519 polling units in the state.

In this article, Tribune Online takes a look at major things to know about the candidates in the three-horse race for the #EdoDecides2024:

Asue Ighodalo – Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)

1. The PDP candidate is a seasoned politician and former lawmaker, known for his strong grassroots support and dedication to Edo’s infrastructural development and healthcare.
2. Ighodalo holds degrees in Economics from the University of Ibadan and a Master of Laws (LL.M) from the London School of Economics.
3. He co-founded Banwo & Ighodalo, one of Nigeria’s top law firms, with a strong focus on corporate law.
4. His campaign centers on job creation, improving agricultural investments, and continuing PDP’s legacy in Edo State.
5. His leadership approach and corporate experience makes him a notable contender in Edo’s political landscape.
6. Ighodalo is committed to economic growth, infrastructural development, and improving educational access in Edo.
7. His business success with companies like Sterling Bank and Dangote Flour Mills offers voters a candidate experienced in both the private and public sectors.
8. Known for his philanthropic work in education and healthcare, Ighodalo is deeply invested in uplifting Edo’s citizens through various initiatives. His business acumen and charitable activities make him a prominent figure in Nigerian society.
9. Asuelimen Ighodalo won the recently concluded primary with a total of 577 votes, emerging as the PDP standard-bearer.

Olumide Akpata – Labour Party (LP)

1. Born on October 7, 1972, Olumide Akpata is a well-known lawyer and former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, where he led reforms for improved lawyer welfare.
2. Akpata is a fresh face in politics, drawing significant support from young voters and civil society groups seeking change from traditional governance.
3. His platform focuses on innovation, technological advancement, and education reform, emphasizing youth empowerment.
4. Akpata earned his law degree from the University of Benin and began his career at Templars, where he became a senior partner.
5. He secured the LP gubernatorial nomination with overwhelming support, showcasing his popularity and leadership potential.
6. Akpata’s platform highlights the need for youth empowerment and technological advancement, resonating with young voters seeking innovation in governance.
7. As a political newcomer, he presents himself as a fresh alternative to the traditional political structure in Edo.
8. Akpata’s experience as NBA President earned him a reputation for transparency, accountability, and justice, which he plans to bring into his governance.
9. His commitment to overhauling the economic system reflects his aim to create opportunities for the unemployed.
10. Olumide Akpata secured 316 votes to win the LP primary.

Monday Okpebholo – All Progressives Congress (APC)

1. Born in 1970 in Uromi, Edo State, Monday Okpebholo is a technocrat with vast experience in the private sector, especially in agriculture, oil and gas, and construction.
2. He holds a Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics and several other qualifications from prestigious Nigerian universities.
3. Okpebholo is a philanthropist through his foundation, providing scholarships and healthcare to underprivileged communities.
4. His campaign focuses on economic reform, foreign investment, and infrastructure development to bring stability and growth to Edo.
5. His candidacy appeals to business leaders and entrepreneurs looking for sustainable development in the state.
6. Okpebholo’s focus on attracting foreign investment and fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors aims to stimulate Edo’s economy.
7. His background in agricultural economics positions him to revitalize the state’s agricultural sector.
8. Okpebholo began his political career in 2003 in the House of Representatives, focusing on rural development and agricultural reform.
9. His political and business achievements reflect his dedication to growth and development in Edo. Monday Okpebholo polled 12,433 votes, emerging as the APC candidate.

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