The Africa Polling Institute (API), a respected independent non-profit research organization, has recently released a significant poll regarding the upcoming Edo State governorship election. According to their findings, Dr. Asue Ighodalo of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is currently leading the race. The poll was conducted from August 12 to August 16, 2024, and surveyed the opinions and voting intentions of Edo State residents.
The survey revealed that 72% of the participants have already made their choice for the governorship election, while the remaining 28% are still undecided. Among those who have decided, Dr. Ighodalo enjoys substantial support, with approximately 60% of respondents favoring him. In contrast, Sen. Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has the backing of 28% of the voters, and Barr. Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party (LP) receives support from 12% of those surveyed.
The poll also provided insights into voter registration and preparedness. It found that 94% of respondents are registered voters with permanent voter cards (PVCs), which indicates a high level of voter engagement.
Additionally, 83% of participants have carefully considered their voting decisions, suggesting that many are taking the election seriously and making informed choices.
However, confidence in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which is responsible for overseeing the election, is mixed.
The poll showed that 47% of respondents lack confidence in INEC’s ability to conduct a free and fair election. On the other hand, 34% of voters have some confidence in the commission, and 19% are fully confident in its ability to manage the election process. Despite these concerns, 80% of respondents feel safe about going out to vote on election day, reflecting a generally positive sentiment towards the voting process.
The survey also explored the factors that influence voters’ decisions. The majority, 57%, consider the candidate’s competence as the most important factor. This is followed by the candidate’s personality, which influences 42% of respondents. Experience and track record are important to 36% of voters, while 34% are influenced by the political party itself, and 16% consider the party manifesto when making their choice.
The API report concludes by noting that while Dr. Ighodalo currently holds a leading position in the polls, the election is anticipated to become a two-horse race between the PDP and APC. The final outcome will largely depend on which candidate can appeal to the 28% of undecided voters. The ability to sway this crucial segment of the electorate could be decisive in determining the next governor of Edo State.
The methodology of the poll involved conducting telephone interviews with 2,687 randomly selected voters across the 18 local government areas of Edo State. The interviews were carried out in five major languages spoken in the state: English, Pidgin English, Benin, Esan, and Etsako, ensuring a broad and inclusive representation of the electorate.
