Nwosa Hamilton
Most constituents in Edo Central Senatorial District are in excitement mood as the All Progressives Congress (APC) officially endorsed Hon. Joe Ikpea, frontline contender for the Senatorial seat as its consensus candidate for the upcoming senatorial by-election, scheduled for August 16, 2025.
The announcement, made during a stakeholders’ meeting in Benin City, has reportedly triggered widespread jubilation among party supporters and constituents, who see Ikpea as a formidable contender that will be able to give a run and secure the vacant Senate seat.
The development which was announced by the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Dennis Idahosa,said the decision followed extensive consultations and a unanimous decision by the Edo Central Caucus of the APC.
Recall that Ikpea, a former Edo State Commissioner for Oil minerals and Gas and erstwhile Esan South East LGA chairman is vying for the Senate seat in Edo Central vacated by the incumbent governor, Monday Okpebholo, after he won the September 21, 2024, governorship election.
Speaking during the meeting, Idahosa described Ikpea’s adoption as a product of extensive consultation and unity of purpose among APC family members, noting that the party was determined to retain the seat.
He said: “This is not just about filling a vacant seat. It is about giving the good people of Edo Central quality, experience, and people-oriented representation.”
The New Diplomat reports that this comes as Ikpea’s reputation has been gaining much traction, and the impact of his leadership and expertise has become more pronounced, with numerous individuals stepping forward, sharing compelling and heartfelt testimonies that highlight the profound impact he has had as a visionary politician and dedicated community leader.
His political journey has a rich intersection of community service, public spiritedness, and exceptional accomplishments that marvel all, including his political rivals and peers.
Ikpea’s political journey is not only rich, fitting, and exciting but also one that has enabled him to touch countless lives in Edo Central, engage in awesome community development and transformation, as well as construct lasting positive legacies. He was the one-time Chairman of the Edo State Library Board during the administration of former Governor Lucky Igbinedion.
He was also a member of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) under the administration of former Edo Governor Adams Oshiomhole. He was also a one-time Esan South East Local Government council chairman. He also served as a Commissioner for Minerals, Oil, and Gas during the first tenure of Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State.
