Oshiomhole Leads Edo APC Senatorial Winners

By Jonadab | Publisher: DocuNews Central May 18, 2026

Former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole has emerged as one of the major winners in the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primaries held in Edo State ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.

Oshiomhole secured the Edo North Senatorial ticket unopposed. Meanwhile, Senator Joe Ikpea also retained his party’s backing in Edo Central without opposition. In Edo South, former House of Representatives member Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama won a contested race to secure the APC senatorial ticket.

On May 17, 2026, the primaries were conducted across Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria, with party officials supervising the internal electoral process across the three senatorial districts.

What Happened in the Edo APC Senatorial Primaries?

The Edo APC conducted its senatorial primaries as part of preparations for the 2027 general election cycle. Party members voted to determine who would carry the APC flag in the next senatorial contests.

In Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole faced no challenger. His return was expected after months of endorsements from party stakeholders and ward leaders. Party delegates confirmed his candidacy through affirmation.

Likewise, Joe Ikpea emerged unopposed in Edo Central. Ikpea already holds political relevance in the district after winning the 2025 Edo Central by-election. His uncontested victory showed strong internal party backing.

However, Edo South produced the most closely watched contest. Several APC members had shown interest in the ticket. Yet after consultations and delegate voting, Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama emerged victorious.

Where Did It Happen?

The primaries took place across Edo State’s three senatorial districts. Key activities were centered in Benin City, the state capital, where party leaders monitored the process.

According to party sources, ward and local government collation centers submitted results to APC state officials before final announcements were made.

Who Is Involved?

Adams Oshiomhole, former National Chairman of the APC and former governor of Edo State, remains one of the party’s most influential figures in the South-South region.

Joe Ikpea, the current senator representing Edo Central, has strengthened his political position after securing another party mandate.

Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama, a former member of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, now becomes the APC’s candidate for Edo South after weeks of campaigning and consultations.

The Edo APC leadership, led by state chairman Jarrett Tenebe, also played a major role in coordinating the primaries.

How Oshiomhole Secured His Ticket

Oshiomhole entered the primary season with strong support from party structures. Earlier in March, Edo APC executives publicly endorsed his return bid for another Senate term.

That endorsement shaped expectations before the primary. As a result, no challenger emerged against him in Edo North.

Political observers say his long-standing influence within the party helped strengthen his position.

Joe Ikpea’s Unopposed Return

Joe Ikpea’s emergence was also widely expected. After his by-election victory in 2025, party members viewed him as the strongest APC candidate in Edo Central.

His unopposed primary result confirmed internal consensus.

Also read APC Makes U-Turn: Ben Murray-Bruce Returns to Senatorial Primary

Ogbeide-Ihama’s Tougher Path in Edo South

The Edo South contest attracted more public attention because it involved multiple aspirants.

Before the vote, Ogbeide-Ihama had publicly argued that experience should guide the party’s decision. He repeatedly told APC leaders that the Senate required tested lawmakers.

That argument became central to his campaign.

Eventually, party delegates backed him.

Reaction from APC Leadership

According to reports monitored by DocuNews Central, APC officials described the primaries as peaceful and transparent.

State party chairman Jarrett Tenebe reportedly congratulated all winners and urged members to unite ahead of 2027.

He said the party’s next priority is preparing for the general election.

Why the Primaries Matter

The Edo APC primaries are important because they shape the party’s 2027 Senate strategy.

Winning all three senatorial seats would strengthen the APC’s influence in the National Assembly.

Therefore, the party now moves into campaign planning.

Political Implications for Edo

Oshiomhole’s return strengthens APC’s northern base in Edo.

Ikpea’s victory preserves stability in Edo Central.

Meanwhile, Ogbeide-Ihama’s emergence could reshape Edo South politics because he brings previous federal legislative experience.

Together, the three candidates form the APC’s official Senate lineup in Edo State.

What Happens Next?

The Independent National Electoral Commission, Independent National Electoral Commission, will later publish the final election timetable for the 2027 general elections.

Before then, parties are expected to submit candidate names after internal ratification.

Campaign activities are expected to intensify in the coming months.

According to DocuNews Central, the Edo APC now enters the next political phase with renewed confidence after completing its senatorial primary process.

Sources used for this report: reporting was compiled from APC primary updates, candidate declarations, and verified public

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