The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has declared Dr Joseph Ikpea of the All Progressives Congress (APC) winner of the Edo Central senatorial by-election.

Prof Kingsley Omo-Iwoze, the returning officer, announced the result in the early hours of Sunday in Ubiaja, headquarters of Esan South-East local government area.

Ikpea secured 105,129 votes to defeat his closest rival, Joe Okojie of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who polled 15,146.

“I, Prof Omo-Iwoze, hereby certify that I am the Returning Officer for the 2025 Edo Central Senatorial District by-election held on 16 August 2025,” the official said. “That Ikpea Joseph of APC, having satisfied the requirements of the law, is hereby declared winner of the election.”

Speaking after his victory, Ikpea dedicated his success to God and the people of Edo Central. He said the outcome showed that voters had chosen “vision over sentiment” and “progress over politics-as-usual.”

“This victory reaffirms the people’s faith in our capacity to deliver. I will not disappoint them.

“I will work hand in hand with our governor, our party, and community leaders to ensure that every part of Edo Central feels the impact of quality representation.

“Governor Monday Okpebholo is a leader of exceptional qualities, strategic, selfless, and deeply connected to the people. His support has been a stabilising force throughout this journey.

The senator-elect promised to focus on infrastructure, youth empowerment, education, healthcare and strengthening traditional institutions. He described Governor Okpebholo whose election as governor earlier this year created the Senate vacancy as a “strategic and selfless leader” whose support helped secure his win.

The Edo Central by-election was called after INEC declared the seat vacant following Okpebholo’s swearing-in as governor.