Katsina Times 

In a significant update, the Independent National Electoral Commission has unveiled the final list and personal details of candidates set to participate in the upcoming bye-elections. The elections, prompted by the demise or resignation of Members of the National and State Houses of Assembly, are scheduled to take place on Saturday, February 3, 2024, spanning nine states across the Federation.

Covering two Senatorial Districts, four Federal Constituencies, and three State Constituencies, the elections hold a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape. As outlined in the earlier-released Timetable and Schedule of Activities, the personal particulars and candidate lists are now accessible in state offices and the relevant constituencies.

This disclosure aligns with the provisions of Section 29(3) of the Electoral Act, 2022. Notably, the list of candidates is also available on the Commission's official website and various social media platforms.

The Commission urges Nigerians to meticulously review the personal particulars, including Form EC9 and academic credentials, of the candidates. Emphasizing transparency, aspirants who identify discrepancies in the information provided by fellow candidates during party primaries are encouraged to challenge the nominations in a Federal High Court, in accordance with Section 29(5) of the Electoral Act 2022.

It's crucial to note that this publication exclusively pertains to the upcoming bye-elections, distinguishing them as fresh elections where political parties conducted primaries and nominated their candidates. In contrast, re-run elections scheduled for the same day have already undergone publication of candidate lists and personal particulars before the 2023 General Election. These re-run elections, dictated by the orders of the Election Petition Appeal Tribunals, do not entertain new or disqualified candidates, eliminating the need for republication of their personal details.