INEC Reveals Duplicate Names and Gender Imbalance in Edo Candidates

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) released the final list of candidates for the 2027 Edo State House of Assembly election, which includes 164 entries. Notably, two candidates, Ogbebor Samson Osemudiamen and Usman William Idenobe, appear on the list under both the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the same constituencies, raising concerns about potential errors or nomination issues.

INEC's Public Relations Officer in Edo State, Toyin Buoro, confirmed the commission's awareness of these duplications and stated they have reported the matter to headquarters. Additionally, the list shows a significant gender imbalance, with 148 male candidates (90.24%) and only 16 female candidates (9.76%).

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has the highest number of female candidates at four, while the All Progressives Congress (APC) has one female candidate, Maria Edeko, contesting for a second term. The overall representation of women remains below 10 percent, highlighting ongoing underrepresentation in the state legislature.