Today, residents of Bayelsa, Imo, and Kogi states head to the polls to elect their governors. The stakes are high as the political heavyweights from various parties gear up for a fierce battle.
Bayelsa State
The oil-rich Bayelsa State is witnessing a hotly contested race with 16 candidates vying for the governorship seat. Incumbent Douye Diri of the PDP, seeking a second term, former Governor Timipre Sylva representing the APC, and Udengs Eradiri of the Labour Party (LP) are the frontrunners in this election.
APC, eager to regain its foothold in Bayelsa, faces a tough challenge after the Supreme Court annulled its victory four years ago. The PDP, on the other hand, has consolidated its position under Governor Diri, who describes himself as a “miracle governor” due to the unprecedented circumstances that led to his assumption of office.
Timipre Sylva
The former Minister of State for Petroleum is a key contender in the Bayelsa polls, despite facing legal challenges regarding his eligibility. His disqualification by a Federal High Court was later overturned by the Appeal Court in Abuja, adding an extra layer of drama to the race.
Udengs Eradiri
As the LP candidate, Eradiri’s prospects are closely tied to the party’s performance in the upcoming 2023 general elections. His political journey, marked by various roles in government, underscores the complexity of his campaign.
Imo State
Imo State, currently led by Governor Hope Uzodinma, is grappling with security challenges as it prepares for the gubernatorial election. The APC’s Uzodinma faces stiff competition from LP’s Athan Nneji Achonu and PDP’s Samuel Anyanwu.
Hope Uzodinma
Taking office in 2020 following a Supreme Court ruling, Uzodinma’s tenure has been marred by insecurity, posing a significant test for his re-election bid.
Athan Achonu
The Labour Party candidate, with a unique narrative as a potential amputee governor, aims to leverage the party’s previous success in the South-Eastern region.
Samuel Anyanwu
A seasoned figure in Imo politics, Anyanwu’s experience and political trajectory position him as a formidable contender against Uzodinma.
Kogi State
In Kogi State, Governor Yahaya Bello’s anticipated succession plan sets the stage for a dynamic electoral battle. Notable candidates include APC’s Ododo Usman Ahmed, PDP’s Dino Melaye, SDP’s Murtala Yakubu Ajaka, and Leke Abejide of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Usman Ahmed Ododo
A former auditor-general for Local Government in Kogi, Ododo enjoys the backing of the incumbent governor and aims to secure victory as the sole candidate from Kogi Central Senatorial District.
Dino Melaye
The former Senator and prominent PDP candidate, known for his previous involvement in the House of Representatives and the 2019 governorship primaries, brings a wealth of political experience to the forefront of the electoral arena.
Muritala Yakubu Ajaka
Having switched allegiances from the APC to the SDP, Ajaka’s grassroots campaign strategy underscores the intense battle for control over Kogi’s political landscape.
