SPOTLIGHT: Key battles, top candidates…all to know as Bayelsa, Imo, Kogi elect new governors

As the November 11th elections approach, political parties and their candidates are actively campaigning in Kogi, Imo, and Bayelsa states. In this report, CrispNG provides an overview of the key contenders and their respective parties.

• Bayelsa State

• All Progressive Congress (APC):

Sylva Timipre Marlin 

Sylva Timipre Marlin, a former governor, is the APC leader in Bayelsa State. He enjoys the support of influential figures within the ruling party at the national level.

Sylva has been a consistent supporter and funder of the APC in Bayelsa and is a respected party leader in the south-south zone. His influence has led to federal appointments within the party.

• Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)

Diri Douye 

Diri Douye is the current Governor of Bayelsa State. Before assuming office, he served as a senator and held several political positions.

Diri was sworn in as governor after the nullification of the 2019 Bayelsa State gubernatorial elections. With a solid background in politics and years of involvement in the PDP, he brings a wealth of experience to the contest.

• Imo State 

• All Progressive Congress (APC)

Uzodimma Odidika Goodhope 

Goodhope is the Governor-elect of Imo State. He previously served as a senator representing the Orlu, Imo West constituency. Following his defeat in the March 2019 elections, he appealed to the Supreme Court and was successful in his appeal, leading to his declaration as governor.

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• Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)

Anyanwu Samuel Nnaemeka 

Nnaemeka, also known as Sam Daddy, is a Nigerian politician. He represented the Imo East Senatorial District in the 8th National Assembly and currently holds the position of National Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party (South East Zone). Although he lost the PDP ticket for Governor of Imo State in the 2019 elections, he remains a prominent figure within the party.

• Kogi State
• All Progressive Congress (APC) Ahmed Usman Ododo

Ododo, the APC flag-bearer for the governorship position, previously served as the Local Government Auditor General under Yahaya Bello’s administration. However, information about his political background remains limited.

• Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)

Melaye Daniel Dino

Dino is a controversial Nigerian politician and former lawmaker. He was a member of the House of Representatives and a senator representing the Kogi West Senatorial District. While he carries a reputation for controversy, Dino remains a prominent figure within the PDP.

In the upcoming November 11th elections, these candidates will compete for the governorship positions in their respective states.