The governor of Nigeria's southern state of Edo has been re-elected for a second term of office.

Godwin Obaseki of the Peoples Democratic Party defeated his closest rival, Pastor Laze lyamu, who ran on a ticket of the ruling All Progressives Congress party.

There were reported tensions and threats of violence in the run up to the governorship election.

Concerns of violence and malpractice led the US and the British governments to announce they will impose travel restrictions on individuals planning to undermine the election.

There are indications the warnings may have forced parties to soften positions in Saturday's elections.

The re-elected governor has been closely involved in a project to build a museum to host the famous Benin Bronzes, which were taken from what is now Edo state in the 19th century.