As the countdown to the off-cycle governorship elections in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi begins, a total of 52 candidates wrap up their campaigns, expressing unwavering confidence in their chances of securing victory.
Bayelsa’s Electoral Battle: Governor Douye Diri’s Bid for Re-election
In Bayelsa, Governor Douye Diri, representing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), seeks re-election amid stiff competition.
Notable opponents include Chief Timipre Sylva of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Udengs Eradiri of the Labour Party (LP). The political landscape is charged with anticipation as the state gears up for a crucial electoral battle.
Imo’s Complex Contest: Governor Hope Uzodimma Faces Multiple Challengers
Imo State witnesses a dynamic contest with Governor Hope Uzodimma of the APC encountering formidable challengers such as Senator Sam Anyanwu of the PDP and Senator Athan Achonu of the LP.
The competitive nature of the electoral field in Imo adds complexity to the gubernatorial race.
Kogi’s Strategic Political Play: Governor Yahaya Bello’s Support for Anointed Candidate
In Kogi, Governor Yahaya Bello, not seeking re-election, strategically throws his weight behind his anointed candidate, Usman Ododo.
The political arena unfolds with 17 other contenders, including Senator Dino Melaye of the PDP, Leke Abejide of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and Muritala Ajaka of the Social Democratic Party (SDP). The state braces for a unique political play.
Optimism Amidst Challenges: Candidates Forge Ahead Despite Concerns
Despite concerns related to voter apathy and insecurity, candidates express optimism during diverse campaign functions held across the states.
Their unwavering confidence underscores their commitment to the democratic process and belief in their ability to resonate with voters.
INEC’s Assurance and ICPC’s Vigilance: Preparations for Credible Elections
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) affirms its readiness to conduct credible polls, emphasizing its commitment to ensuring a transparent electoral process.
Simultaneously, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) issues a stern warning against electoral corruption, vowing to monitor the elections closely.
ICPC’s Operatives Deployed: Ensuring Electoral Integrity Across States
In a proactive move, the ICPC deploys its operatives to monitor the upcoming governorship elections in the three states on November 11, 2023.
Operatives will be strategically stationed in the 56 local government areas and 649 wards to prevent vote-buying and other electoral malpractices.
Collaborative Security Efforts: ICPC Operatives Partner with Military and Police
Responding to INEC’s invitation, ICPC operatives are instructed to collaborate with the Military, Police, Department of State Security (DSS), and other security agencies to ensure the elections are free and fair.
The collaborative efforts aim to create a secure environment for all participants in the electoral process.
Discipline and Integrity Emphasized: ICPC’s Directives to Operatives
The Head of Special Duty Division (SDD) at ICPC, Alex Chukwura, underscores the importance of adherence to ICPC guidelines. He urges operatives to maintain discipline, integrity, and teamwork throughout their monitoring activities.
The directive includes taking appropriate actions against any perpetrators of corruption, regardless of their social status in the electoral processes.
Call to Civic Responsibility: Voters Encouraged to Uphold Democracy
As the elections approach, voters in the three states receive encouragement to fulfill their civic responsibilities on election day while avoiding actions that could lead to electoral and related offences. The collective call is for a democratic and peaceful electoral process.
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