The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled by-elections in six states for June 20, 2026, aligning them with the Ekiti governorship poll in a move to streamline electoral activities.
INEC chairman Joash Amupitan announced the date at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja while receiving Jamila Malafa, who was recently sworn in as a national commissioner.
According to him, the elections will fill vacant legislative seats across the country. These include senatorial positions in Enugu, Nasarawa, Rivers and Ondo states, alongside a state assembly seat in Kebbi and a House of Representatives seat in Kano.
“We are going into some off-cycle elections very soon. The Ekiti state governorship election is scheduled for June 20, 2026. On the same date, the commission will conduct by-elections to fill vacant seats,” Amupitan said.
He reiterated the commission’s readiness to conduct credible polls, stressing its constitutional mandate to oversee elections at all levels, from the presidency to local councils.
Amupitan also welcomed Malafa, describing her as an experienced professional with a background in military legal services and electoral logistics. He noted that her previous role as director of legal services in the Nigerian Navy positions her well for the commission’s work.
In her response, Malafa expressed gratitude for the reception and pledged to support INEC’s efforts to deliver successful elections.
