Edo State, located in Nigeria’s South-South region, is a vibrant political hub that has produced some of Nigeria’s most influential politicians. These individuals have not only served in various public offices but have also built impressive wealth through business, politics, and strategic investments.
1. Adams Oshiomhole – Estimated Net Worth: $180 Million
Adams Oshiomhole is a former labour leader and two-term Governor of Edo State. He also served as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Known for his outspoken and populist style, Oshiomhole built much of his wealth from public service, political consultancy, public speaking engagements, and investments in construction and real estate. He remains a prominent political voice in Edo and Nigeria.
2. Osagie Ize-Iyamu – Estimated Net Worth: $160 Million
Osagie Ize-Iyamu is a veteran Edo politician and lawyer who has contested for the governorship multiple times. Though he has not held executive office, he remains a strong grassroots mobilizer and influential party figure.
Ize-Iyamu’s wealth comes from agriculture, legal practice, land development, and political lobbying. He is also a religious leader with strong community support.
3. Lucky Igbinedion – Estimated Net Worth: $145 Million
Lucky Igbinedion, a former Governor of Edo State (1999–2007), is the son of Esama of Benin, Chief Gabriel Igbinedion. His family’s legacy in business and education provided a strong financial base for his political career.
During and after his time as governor, Lucky invested in real estate, transport, and hospitality. Despite past controversies, he remains financially influential.
4. John Osamede Adun – Estimated Net Worth: $120 Million
Chief John Osamede Adun, popularly known as Baba John, made his fortune in transportation and logistics. He is a powerful traditional and political figure in Benin City.
His influence in politics is mostly financial, backing several successful campaigns. His transport company, coupled with real estate and land holdings, forms the foundation of his wealth.
5. Mike Oghiadomhe – Estimated Net Worth: $100 Million
Mike Oghiadomhe is a seasoned politician who once served as Deputy Governor of Edo State and later Chief of Staff to President Goodluck Jonathan.
He is known for his oil sector investments and properties across Abuja, Lagos, and Benin. Mike also owns stakes in consultancy firms and agricultural projects.
6. Godwin Obaseki – Estimated Net Worth: $95 Million
Governor Godwin Obaseki, in his second term as Edo State Governor, was formerly the Chairman of the Edo State Economic Team and head of Afrinvest.
His wealth was largely built from years in investment banking and asset management. His administration is focused on digital governance, job creation, and infrastructure development, further increasing his political capital.
7. Mitchell Elegbe – Estimated Net Worth: $85 Million
Mitchell Elegbe, founder of Interswitch Group (a Nigerian fintech unicorn), hails from Edo State and though not a politician by trade, he plays a role in shaping economic policy and youth empowerment initiatives.
His financial success comes from digital payments, equity investments, and technology innovation. Mitchell’s growing influence in Edo State’s tech and business scene makes him a political asset.
8. Oserheimen Osunbor – Estimated Net Worth: $75 Million
Professor Oserheimen Osunbor is a legal scholar and former Governor of Edo State. He also served as a senator and remains active in political and constitutional matters.
His wealth comes from decades in academia, legal practice, and public service. Osunbor is known for his calm, intellectual approach to governance and lawmaking.
Summary Table: Top 10 Richest Politicians in Edo State (2025)
| Rank | Name | Estimated Net Worth (USD) | Major Roles/Positions | Primary Source of Wealth |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Adams Oshiomhole | $180 Million | Ex-Governor, Ex-APC Chairman | Politics, Real Estate, Construction |
| 2 | Osagie Ize-Iyamu | $160 Million | Politician, Lawyer | Agriculture, Legal Practice, Politics |
| 3 | Lucky Igbinedion | $145 Million | Ex-Governor, Political Leader | Inheritance, Real Estate, Transport |
| 4 | John Osamede Adun | $120 Million | Businessman, Political Financier | Transport, Land, Construction |
| 5 | Mike Oghiadomhe | $100 Million | Ex-Chief of Staff, Ex-Deputy Governor | Oil & Gas, Consultancy, Real Estate |
| 6 | Godwin Obaseki | $95 Million | Governor, Former Investment Banker | Banking, Governance, Real Estate |
| 7 | Mitchell Elegbe | $85 Million | Tech Entrepreneur, Fintech CEO | Technology, Fintech, Investment |
| 8 | Oserheimen Osunbor | $75 Million | Ex-Governor, Senator, Professor | Legal Services, Academia, Politics |
Final Thoughts
Edo State continues to be a cornerstone of Nigerian politics, home to seasoned political leaders and wealthy elites who shape not just local governance but also national policy. While none of the politicians on this list have crossed the billion-dollar mark, their influence, wealth, and power remain vast and significant.
Many of these individuals have diversified their income sources—spanning politics, banking, agriculture, technology, law, and transport—demonstrating the interconnected nature of wealth and leadership in Nigeria. Whether you are a student of political science, an aspiring leader, or just curious about the state's top figures, this list gives insight into who holds power and money in Edo State today.
Would you like me to create a downloadable PDF version of this blog or help you format it for your WordPress site?
