By-election : Okojie, Aikpitanyi Emerges As PDP Candidates For Edo Central Senatorial, Ovia Fed Constituency

By-election : Okojie, Aikpitanyi
Emerges As PDP Candidates For Edo Central Senatorial, Ovia Fed Constituency

By Ikhili Ebalu, Benin City

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‎ Prince Joe Okojie has emerged as the candidate of the Edo State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the August 16, 2025 National Assembly by-election for Edo Central Senatorial District and Aikpitanyi as the candidate for Ovia House of Representative.

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‎ Both emerged as the winner of the PDP Primary election which was held in the State on Monday, July 21, 2025.

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‎Okojie clinched the ticket after scoring 84 votes ahead of his close rivals, Hon. John Yakubu who secured 52 votes and Friday Itulah who got 21 votes in the election held in Ubiaja headquarters of Esan North East local government area.
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‎ 157 out of the 158 ward and national delegates took part in the primary election, with no void votes recorded.
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‎Addressing journalists after the election, Okojie expressed appreciation to the delegates and other aspirants who took part in the election, noting that he will work with leaders and members of the party in ensuring the PDP emerges victorious in the forthcoming by-election.

In a related development, Johnny Ikponmwosa Aikpitanyi emerged as the candidate of the Edo State PDP for the National Assembly election for Ovia Federal Constituency.
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‎Aikpitanyi who was the only aspirant for the Ovia Federal Constituency seat, was confirmed as the party’s candidate by the delegates who took part in the primary election held in Iguobazuwa, Ovia South-West LGA of Edo State.
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In his appreciation to PDP leaders, delegates, and supporters, Aikpitanyi noted, “Emerging as your candidate is not just an honour, it is a solemn responsibility I embrace with every sense of duty, humility, and commitment. I recognise the faith you have placed in me, and I do not take it for granted.”

He further urged, “Let us now come together, stronger than ever, to win the by-election and build the Ovia of our dreams. Victory is not for one individual but for all of us who believe in justice, progress, and prosperity.”