Edo PDP Clears Candidates Ahead of July 21 Senate and House By‑Elections

In advance of the August 16, 2025, National Assembly by-elections for the Edo Central Senatorial District and Ovia Federal Constituency, the Edo State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has vetted and approved candidates for its July 21st, 2025 party primary.

Joe Okojie, Friday Itulah, and John Yakubu have all been cleared for the Edo Central senatorial ticket.

Only Johnny Ikponmwosa Aikpitanyi was vetted and approved as the party’s lone candidate for the Ovia Federal Constituency seat.

However, the party did not approve Festus Edogun to run for the Edo Central Senatorial District ticket.

A five-member panel constituted by the PDP National Working Committee screened the candidates on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, in the state party secretariat, which is situated at No. 20 Aiguobasimwin Street, GRA, Benin City.

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Professor Okumoko Tubo Pearce serves as the committee’s chair, and Arc. Chinomso Odoemelan serves as its secretary. Evelyn Promise, David Omare, and Inemo Dede are among the other participants.

On Friday, July 18, 2025, in the Edo PDP Secretariat, committee members gave the candidates their certificates of clearance.

Following his clearing certificate, Johnny Ikponmwosa Aikpitanyi spoke on behalf of other candidates and praised committee members for their professionalism, effort, and fairness in carrying out their responsibilities.

“I want to sincerely thank members of the Screening Committee for their professionalism, fairness, and diligence in carrying out their duties,” he said. We are prepared for the upcoming work with this clearance. With the resounding support of our people, we will win and guarantee that our residents receive high-caliber, meaningful representation. I am more than ready to fly the PDP flag in Ovia.

“I am confident to win,” he reiterated. With my people’s help, we will work together to restore Ovia’s glory and make it even more radiant. We’ll prioritize community development and making Ovia the envy of everyone.