The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released final list of candidates for the off-cycle governorship elections scheduled for Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi states on November 11, 2023.
The commission approved the final list at its regular meeting on Tuesday in Abuja, saying the decision is in line with the provision of Section 32(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 which requires the publication of the list not later than 150 days to election day.
A statement by Festus Okoye, INEC National Commissioner in charge of Information and Voter Education, said the final list has been uploaded to the commission’s website and social media platforms.
“Same will be published in our state and local government offices in the affected states on Thursday 8th June 2023 ahead of the statutory deadline of 9th June 2023.”
Accordingly, he noted that the list shows that all 18 political parties are fielding candidates in Kogi State, 17 in Imo State and 16 in Bayelsa State.
“The list also shows that two political parties are fielding female candidates in Bayelsa State, one in Kogi State and none in Imo State.
“The commission wishes to remind political parties and candidates that in line with timetable and schedule of activities for the three elections, campaign in public officially commences on Wednesday 14th June 2023 in line with Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 and ends on 9th November 2023 i.e. 24 hours prior to election day”.
The commission, however, expressed regrets over last week’s ugly incident in Kogi State involving the convoys of two political actors in Kogi State resulting in the destruction of vehicles and other properties ahead of the commencement of campaign.
“We urge parties and candidates to conduct their political activities with civility and decorum as peaceful electioneering heralds a peaceful election. Political parties and candidates have a responsibility to de-escalate tension ahead of the elections,” the commission pleaded.
