As the 2024 governorship race in Edo State approaches, the glamour, intrigue, and conflicts among political figures are increasingly apparent, especially under the watchful eye of influential politicians like President Bola Tinubu.
With over 35,000 police officers and an additional 8,000 security personnel deployed to polling stations, the atmosphere is charged with fear and potential violence, drawing the attention of international observers.
Current Governor Godwin Obaseki has voiced concerns about the election’s successful outcome, reflecting the high stakes involved.
Seventeen political parties have been registered to contest in the gubernatorial election, comprising sixteen male candidates and one female, as per the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Candidates range from holders of primary school leaving certificates to those with diplomas, bachelor’s degrees, and legal qualifications.
Noteworthy candidates include Iyere Kennedy (Accord), a fintech and human rights entrepreneur; Tom Iseghohi (Action Alliance), a former general manager at Transcorp; and Udoh Oberaifo (AAC), a business consultant. Other candidates include engineers, political veterans like Kingson Akhimie (ADP) and Senator Monday Okpebholo (APC), as well as Osifo Isaiah (APGA) and Ugiagbe Sylvester (APM).
The race also features former NBA president Olumide Akpata (Labour), pastor Azemhe Friday Azena (NNPP), lawyer Asuerinme Ighodalo (PDP), and the only female candidate, health professional Key Ndidi Patience (PRP), along with Anerua Abdulai Aliu (SDP), Okungbowa Paul Ovbokhan (YPP), and Akhalamhe Amiemenoghena (ZLP).
As the election draws near, all eyes will be on Edo State and the dynamics that will unfold among these candidates.