The contest for the governorship of Edo State is intensifying, with fresh insights from a pre-election survey indicating that Mr. Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is currently in a strong lead.
Conducted by the Africa Polling Institute (API) from August 12 to 16, 2024, the poll reveals that Ighodalo enjoys 43% of the voter support, placing him significantly ahead of his closest competitor, Mr. Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who trails with 20%. Mr. Olumide Akpata from the Labour Party (LP) is further behind at just 9%.
In a commentary from Professor Bell Ihua, the Executive Director of API, the poll highlights a crucial aspect of the upcoming elections: the undecided voters, who represent 28% of the surveyed population. This uncertainty leaves the door open for either leading candidate to capture these essential votes as the election date approaches.
The API survey reflects the mood of Edo State voters gearing up for the gubernatorial election. An impressive 94% of participants confirmed they have registered and collected their Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs), with 83% expressing that they have seriously contemplated their voting choices.
The poll also delves into voter perceptions of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the electoral process. Results show a divided opinion: 47% of respondents harbor skepticism about INEC’s ability to conduct a transparent election, while 34% possess some confidence, and only 19% fully trust the commission. Nevertheless, an optimistic 80% of those surveyed feel secure enough to cast their votes on election day.
In terms of party viability, 42% of voters believe the PDP stands the best chance of securing victory, compared to 22% for the APC and a meager 6% for the LP.
When asked about their intentions to vote, an overwhelming 82% indicated they would participate, while 9% plan to abstain, and 8% remain uncertain.
Key factors influencing voter choices were identified, with competence (57%), personality (42%), and experience (36%) emerging as top considerations. When asked which candidate best exemplified these qualities, 43% of respondents pointed to Asue Ighodalo, while 21% chose Monday Okpebholo and 7% favored Olumide Akpata. Notably, 29% of voters were undecided regarding which candidate best represented these traits.
Supporters of Ighodalo cited his capabilities, qualifications, and achievements (30%), his extensive corporate experience (24%), and his comprehensive policy proposals (15%) as their main reasons for backing him. Conversely, Okpebholo’s advocates emphasized his connection to the ruling APC (30%), his local heritage (25%), and his experience as a sitting Senator (19%) as crucial factors.
Although Akpata has a smaller support base, his followers highlighted his association with the Labour Party (30%) and his ties to the “Obedient” movement (27%).
As the campaign heats up, the Edo 2024 Governorship Election is emerging as a fierce competition primarily between the PDP and APC. However, with nearly one-third of voters yet to make a decision, both frontrunners must craft compelling arguments in the weeks ahead to secure these critical votes.
