The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has given its official approval to the final list of candidates for the upcoming off-cycle Governorship elections in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi States. These elections are scheduled to be held on November 11, 2023, providing an opportunity for voters in these states to choose their next leaders.
Barr. Festus Okoye, the national commissioner and chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, made the announcement in a statement released in Abuja. He highlighted that this decision is in accordance with the provision of Section 32(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which requires the publication of the final candidate list at least 150 days before the election day, falling on June 9, 2023.
Okoye further explained that the period for voluntary withdrawal and substitution of candidates by political parties, as outlined in Section 31 of the Electoral Act 2022, has also been taken into consideration. As a result, the final list of candidates has been uploaded to INEC’s website and social media platforms, and it will be published in INEC’s State and Local Government offices in the respective states on June 8, 2023, meeting the statutory deadline.
According to Okoye, a total of 18 political parties will field candidates in Kogi State, 17 parties in Imo State, and 16 parties in Bayelsa State. Notably, two political parties will have female candidates in Bayelsa State, one in Kogi State, and none in Imo State, as indicated by the list.
Taking the opportunity, Okoye reminded political parties and candidates about the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the three elections. As per Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, official public campaign activities will commence on June 14, 2023, and conclude on November 9, 2023, a day before the election.
Expressing concern over recent incidents in Kogi State involving destructive acts targeting vehicles and properties during political convoys, Okoye stressed the importance of conducting political activities with civility and decorum. He emphasized that peaceful electioneering sets the stage for a peaceful election and called upon political parties and candidates to de-escalate tensions ahead of the elections.
INEC remains committed to ensuring a smooth and transparent electoral process, and Okoye urged all stakeholders to collaborate in creating an environment conducive to credible and peaceful elections. With the final candidate list now confirmed, the stage is set for an engaging and competitive election season in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi States.