The Deputy Governor of Edo State, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, has reaffirmed that Barr. Omosede Igbinedion is the sole consensus candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the forthcoming Ovia Federal Constituency by-election.
He made this known on Friday while receiving members of the APC Edo Central Senatorial and Ovia Federal Constituency Primary Election Committees, who arrived from Abuja ahead of the party’s primary elections scheduled for Saturday, July 19, 2025.
Deputy Governor Idahosa noted that with the backing of the Edo State APC leadership, the party remains united, particularly in the Edo South zone. He disclosed that other aspirants for the House of Representatives seat—Hon. Sunny Osazemwinde, Hon. Lincoln Ibie, Hon. Charity Amiayawo, and Hon. Oscar Aghedo—have all stepped down in support of Barr. Igbinedion.
In his remarks, APC Edo State Chairman, Jarret Tenebe, confirmed that preparations for the primary elections in both Ovia Federal Constituency and Edo Central Senatorial District are complete.
Speaking on behalf of the Edo Central Senatorial District Primary Election Committee, Chairman Stanley Buada commended the state party leadership for fostering unity by adopting consensus candidates, thereby easing the committee’s assignment.
Chairman of the Ovia Federal Constituency Primary Committee, Barr. Lucky Ajokperiniovo, announced that the direct primary mode will be adopted, with five delegates selected from each ward within the constituency. He expressed gratitude to the Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and APC officials for their cooperation and support.
Barr. Omosede Igbinedion, the consensus candidate for Ovia Federal Constituency, expressed her appreciation to the party for their trust and extended gratitude to the aspirants who stepped down in her favor.
Also speaking, Hon. Joe Ikpea, the APC consensus candidate for Edo Central Senatorial District, pledged to bring effective representation to his people.
“I have a name to protect, and I believe it is my calling to serve and bring joy to my people. Our region is plagued by poor infrastructure and insecurity, particularly kidnapping. I am confident that with the support of His Excellency, Governor Monday Okpebholo, we will address these challenges from the National Assembly,” he stated.
The APC primaries are seen as a key step in solidifying the party’s preparedness ahead of the by-elections, with unity and consensus emerging as central themes in the build-up.