By Ogochukwu Isioma
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has published the final approved list of candidates for the upcoming November 11, 2023 off-cycle Governorship Elections in Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi States.
The list was contained in a statement on Tuesday signed by Barr Festus Okoye, INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee.
He said 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.
“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 the affected States on Thursday 8th June 2023 ahead of the statutory deadline of 9th June 2023,” Okoye said.
The list showed 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.
INEC reminded 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, that is 24 hours prior to election day.
Meanwhile, INEC has condemned the ugly incident last week 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, describing it as “worrisome.”
“We urge parties and candidates to conduct their political activities with civility and decorum as peaceful electioneering heralds a peaceful election,” the electoral commission noted, adding, “Political parties and candidates have a responsibility to de-escalate tension ahead of the elections.”
Full List Below:
BAYELSA
IMO
KOGI
