Nigerians in Edo and Ondo will go to the polls on September 21 and November 16, respectively, to elect state governors, a group that has become increasingly influential and powerful in the Fourth Republic. This leadership transition at state level has either led to sustained growth or unnecessary clashes between different groups seeking to assert control.
The polls in Edo and Ondo take on an outsized level of influence because they come near the mid-point of Tinubu’s term in office. As preparations already began for the 2027 general elections, these polls will be important indicators of public sentiment as they are expected to assess the popularity of the president, test the hold of the incumbent parties, and gauge the appeal of the third force in those states.