Edo State Confirms Date for Municipal Elections
The Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC) has announced that the next local government election will take place on Saturday, July 11, 2026. The election will cover all 18 local government areas in the state, in compliance with the Edo State Local Electoral Law (2012) and related amendments.
The commission has outlined a structured timeline for pre-election activities, including a meeting with political parties to discuss election guidelines on November 3, 2025, party primaries from November 10–29, 2025, and the collection and submission of nomination forms in December 2025. The deadline for withdrawal and replacement of candidates is set for January 19, 2026.
EDSIEC has affirmed its readiness to conduct a free, fair, and credible election. The announcement was made by the commission's chairman, Jonathan Aifuobakhan, during a press briefing at the EDSIEC's headquarters in Benin City.
Meanwhile, the successful hosting of over 20 All Progressives Governors Forum (APG) in Benin City has been hailed as more than just a show of logistics and hospitality. According to the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua, the coordinated turnout, security optics, and messaging during the APG meeting demonstrated Governor Monday Okpebholo's administrative prowess. Itua also suggested that Edo State's strategic selection as the venue for the APG meeting signifies the state's growing influence within the APC.
However, it is important to note that the search results do not provide specific information about Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration or his influence within the APC in relation to this election. The announcement appears to be a routine electoral activity managed by the state electoral body, independent of any specific commentary on the governor’s role or partisan standing.
Elsewhere, tension persists in Edo due to youth protests against killings and kidnappings under Okpebholo's watch. Aspirants for Senate and House of Representatives by-elections in Edo are being screened, while the PDP has dismissed those posing as Edo Caretaker Committee members.
In a separate development, Okpebholo ordered a security personnel transfer after denying supporters access to the Government House. The Chief Imam has also spoken out about a police report, stating that he got himself released by paying ₦6.5 million.
In conclusion, the Edo State local government election is scheduled for July 11, 2026, following statutory requirements and a clearly defined electoral timeline. The search results do not provide specific information about Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration or his influence within the APC in relation to this election.
- The PDP has expressed concern over the rising incidents of kidnapping in Edo State, urging the government to address the issue before the forthcoming local government election.
- As the election date approaches, debates on policy-and-legislation that could improve the lives of Naija citizens are gaining traction among political parties in the state.
- In the midst of political activities, general-news coverage has also highlighted car-accidents and fires in various parts of Edo State, calling for improved infrastructure and emergency response services.
- Actions taken by Governor Monday Okpebholo, such as the transfer of security personnel and the decision to deny supporters access to the Government House, are being closely monitored for any potential impact on the election.
- Meanwhile, migration out of Nigeria continues to be a pressing issue with reps and senate members advocating for stronger policies to curb the trend.
- Amidst the election preparation, war-and-conflicts in neighboring countries and their potential impact on Nigeria are also under discussion in the halls of politics and crime-and-justice forums.
- The APC, in its efforts to strengthen its presence in Edo State, has announced regulating members for the Senate and House of Representatives by-elections, hoping to secure majority seats in these elections.
- While the police have been taking measures to ensure a safe and peaceful election, reports of corruption and extortion continue to surface, casting a shadow over the force’s readiness for the election.
- As the election date draws near, various candidates are campaigning through rallies, media appearances, and door-to-door visits, hoping to win the favor of the Edo electorate.
- In light of the ongoing protests and the critical state of the nation, some are questioning whether this election will truly reflect the general will of the people or if it will be influenced by political maneuvering, corruption, and external factors.
