INEC Schedules June 20 By-Elections Across 6 States

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced June 20, 2026, as the date for by-elections to fill vacant legislative seats in six states across Nigeria.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, made the disclosure on Thursday in Abuja during the swearing-in ceremony of a new National Commissioner, retired Rear Admiral Jamila Malafa. He noted that the by-elections will be held on the same day as the Ekiti State Governorship Election.

According to Amupitan, the exercise will cover senatorial vacancies in Enugu, Nasarawa, Rivers, and Ondo states. It will also include elections for a State House of Assembly seat in Kebbi State and a House of Representatives seat in Kano State.

“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,” he said.

He added that INEC remains committed to conducting credible and transparent elections in line with its constitutional mandate.

Commenting on Malafa’s appointment, the INEC chairman described her as a seasoned professional with extensive experience in both military service and electoral operations. He highlighted her previous contributions to the commission, particularly in logistics, as well as her role as Director of Legal Services in the Nigerian Navy.

In her remarks, Malafa expressed gratitude for her appointment and pledged to support the commission’s work.

“I’m glad to be here and I thank you for the warm reception. I look forward to working with everyone for the development and stability of our country, and for the success of forthcoming elections,” she said.