Residents of Kogi, Imo, and Bayelsa States are casting their votes today in off-cycle elections to choose their next governors. These elections encompass the South East, South South, and North Central regions of Nigeria.
In Imo and Bayelsa, the incumbents are seeking re-election, while Kogi State is poised to elect a new governor. The All Progressives Congress (APC) aims to maintain power in Kogi and Imo States, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is striving to retain power in Bayelsa State, historically a PDP stronghold since 1999.
Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri, running for a second term under the PDP, faces stiff competition from former Governor Timipre Sylva of the APC and Udengs Eradiri of the Labour Party (LP).
In Kogi State, where Governor Yahaya Bello is concluding his two constitutional terms, the APC candidate, Ododo Usman Ahmed, endorsed by the incumbent, is competing against Murtala Yakubu Ajaka of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Dino Melaye of the PDP, and Leke Abejide of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
In Imo State, 17 candidates have been cleared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the governorship election. Leading the pack are Governor Uzodinma of the APC, Samuel Anyanwu of the PDP, and Labour Party’s Athan Achonu.
As events unfold, SPRINGNEWS will provide situation reports from these states.
Imo Decides: Governor Uzodimma Commends INEC and Voters
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, the APC gubernatorial candidate, expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the election by INEC. Uzodimma commended the residents for their large voter turnout, acknowledging their commitment to the democratic process. He also appreciated the security operatives for maintaining a peaceful atmosphere.
Imo State, with over two million eligible voters, is witnessing a competitive three-horse race, with Governor Uzodimma facing challengers from the PDP and LP. INEC reported 2,419,922 registered voters, representing a 6.5 percent increase from the 2019 elections.
DSS Officials Take Over Dino Melaye’s Polling Unit
DSS officials were seen at Dino Melaye’s polling unit in Ayetoro-Gbede, Kogi State. Melaye, a PDP candidate, is among those competing for the governorship. The presence of security agencies adds to the election’s tense atmosphere.
Suspected Thugs Storm Polling Units in Bayelsa
Armed thugs reportedly broke into polling units in Sagbama Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, shooting sporadically and hijacking electoral materials. The electorates’ attempts to confront them were met with gunfire.
Owerri West LGA Witnesses Large Turnout
Owerri West Local Government Area in Imo State witnessed a large turnout of voters compared to Owerri Municipal LGA. INEC officials reported smooth functioning of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) devices. The state Commissioner for Lands, Survey, and Physical Planning confirmed an impressive turnout at certain polling units.
Kogi Guber: Election Peaceful, Orderly – APC Candidate, Ododo
APC’s Kogi governorship candidate, Usman Ododo, commended INEC for the peaceful and orderly conduct of the election. After casting his ballot, he expressed satisfaction with the ongoing electoral process.
No Security Agents for VIPs at Polling Units – Police
The Nigeria Police Force announced that no security agent would be allowed to accompany VIPs to polling units during the election. Any officer found violating this order would be arrested and dealt with, according to the Deputy Inspector-General of Police.
Bayelsa: Election Materials Arrive Early in Yenagoa
Election materials arrived early at polling units in Yenagoa. Activities commenced promptly, and security officials were strategically positioned.
Bayelsa: Voting Commences in Ward 6 Unit 16 Amarata Yenagoa
Voting began in Ward 6 Unit 16 Amarata, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. INEC officials educated voters on the voting process, and accreditation was ongoing in other units.
Voting Yet to Commence in Lokoja Metropolis
As of 9 a.m., voting had not commenced across many polling units in Lokoja metropolis. INEC officials were awaited at various polling units, causing frustration among voters.
Kogi Witnesses Late Arrival of INEC Officials
The off-cycle governorship election in Kogi witnessed the late arrival of INEC officials at polling units. Some places experienced delays, with officials citing challenges in transportation and distribution of materials.
As events unfold, stay tuned for more updates on the elections in these states.