The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has unveiled the definitive list of candidates for the forthcoming governorship election in Edo State, marking the commencement of official electioneering campaigns.
The finalized roster comprises 17 candidates, with 16 males and one female vying for the governorship seat. INEC declared that political campaigns will kick off on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, leading up to the September 21, 2024 election.
Following the conclusion of primary elections, INEC initially disclosed the personal details of governorship candidates and their running mates across state and local government offices in Edo State. Subsequently, several political parties organized fresh primaries to replace their earlier nominated candidates before the April 15, 2024 deadline.
In a statement, Sam Olumekun, the National Commissioner and Chairman of INEC’s Information and Voter Education Committee, announced the finalization of the candidate list and the commencement of the campaign period.
Olumekun emphasized that political parties must conduct their campaigns with civility and decorum, adhering strictly to the provisions of the law to avoid infractions. He highlighted sections 92 to 97 of the Electoral Act 2022, which prohibit inciting language, violence, and voter inducement.
The governorship candidates and their running mates include:
– Accord: Iyere Kennedy and Enabulele Bright
– Action Alliance: Iseghohi Tom and Onaiwu Nmwen
– African Action Congress: Udoh David and Osunde Osas
– African Democratic Congress: Izedonmwen Derek and Osagie Philip
– Action Democratic Party: Akhimie Kingson and Obazee Ramatu
– All Progressives Congress: Okpebholo Monday and Idahosa Dennis
– All Progressives Grand Alliance: Osifo Isaiah and Bello Aneru
– Allied Peoples Party: Ugiagbe Sylvester and Ezomo Ede
– Action Peoples Party: Areloegbe Osalumese and Oyarenua Paul
– Boot Party: Osiriame Edeipo and Omorogbe Kingsley
– Labour Party: Akpata Anthony and Alufohai Faith
– New Nigeria People’s Party: Azena Friday and Isokpan Ihueghian
– Peoples Democratic Party: Ighodalo Asuerinme and Ogie Osarodion
– Peoples Redemption Party: Key Ndidi and Ojo Advice
– Social Democratic Party: Anerua Aliu and Amedu Paul
– Young Progressives Party: Okungbowa Ovbokhan and Mustapha Tijani
– Zenith Labour Party: Akhalamhe Amiemenoghena and Idubor Olamilayo
