The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the official and final list of candidates for the off-cycle Governorship Elections scheduled for November 11, 2023, in Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi States.

In a statement issued by Barr Festus Okoye, INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, the decision to publish the list aligns with the provisions of Section 32(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which mandates its release no later than 150 days before the election day.

The final list has been made available on the Commission’s website and social media platforms. It will also be published at INEC’s offices in the affected states on Thursday, June 8, 2023, ahead of the statutory deadline of June 9, 2023.

According to the list, all 18 political parties will field candidates in Kogi State, 17 in Imo State, and 16 in Bayelsa State. Additionally, two political parties have nominated female candidates in Bayelsa.

INEC reminded political parties and candidates that, in accordance with the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the three elections, official campaign activities will commence on Wednesday, June 14, 2023, as stipulated by Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022. The campaign period will conclude on November 9, 2023, 24 hours prior to election day.

In another development, INEC expressed its condemnation of a recent incident involving political convoys in Kogi State, which resulted in the destruction of vehicles and other properties. The electoral commission described the incident as “worrisome.” INEC urged political parties and candidates to conduct their activities with civility and decorum, emphasizing the importance of peaceful electioneering in ensuring a peaceful election. The commission called on parties and candidates to take responsibility in de-escalating tension ahead of the elections.