INEC Fixes date for Bye-Elections in six states

Welcomes New National Commissioner

Abuja, Nigeria – May 1, 2026 (African News Digest) – The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled Saturday, June 20, 2026, for the conduct of bye-elections across six states of the federation.

The announcement was made on Thursday by INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, during a brief ceremony at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja to formally receive a newly sworn-in National Commissioner, Rear Admiral Jamila Malafa (rtd.).

According to the Commission, the bye-elections will be conducted alongside the Ekiti State Governorship Election slated for the same date.

Prof. Amupitan stated that the elections will fill senatorial vacancies in Enugu State, Nasarawa State, Rivers State and Ondo State. In addition, a State House of Assembly seat in Kebbi State and a House of Representatives seat in Kano State will also be contested.

“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 bye-elections to fill vacant seats,” the INEC Chairman said.

Welcoming the new National Commissioner, Prof. Amupitan described Rear Admiral Malafa (rtd.) as a seasoned professional with extensive experience in military service and electoral operations. He noted her prior work with the Commission in logistics and her role as Director of Legal Services in the Nigerian Navy.

The INEC Chairman reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to its constitutional mandate to conduct credible and transparent elections into the offices of President, National Assembly, Governors, State Houses of Assembly, and Area Councils.

In her remarks, Rear Admiral Malafa (rtd.) expressed appreciation for the reception and pledged to contribute meaningfully to the Commission’s responsibilities ahead of forthcoming elections.

The ceremony was attended by National Commissioners, senior officials of the Commission, the Secretary to the Commission, the Director-General of The Electoral Institute, and family members of the newly appointed official.

African News Digest will continue to provide updates on preparations for the June 20 elections and related political developments.