The Independent National Electoral Commission has announced June 20, 2026, as the date for a series of by-elections to fill vacant legislative seats across six states.
The elections will hold on the same day as the Ekiti State governorship poll, as the commission prepares for multiple off-cycle elections to be conducted simultaneously.
INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, made this known on Thursday in Abuja during a brief ceremony to receive a newly appointed National Commissioner, Jamila Malafa.
According to him, the commission is gearing up for a busy electoral period, with several contests lined up for the same day.
“We are going into some off-cycle elections very soon. The Ekiti State Governorship Election is scheduled for June 20, 2026, and on the same date, the commission will conduct by-elections to fill vacant seats,” he said.
He explained that the exercise will cover senatorial elections in Enugu State, Nasarawa State, Rivers State, and Ondo State. In addition, elections will be held for a State House of Assembly seat in Kebbi State and a House of Representatives seat in Kano State.
Amupitan also formally welcomed Malafa into the commission, describing her as a seasoned professional with experience in both military service and electoral administration. He noted her previous contributions to INEC, especially in logistics, as well as her role as Director of Legal Services in the Nigerian Navy.
Reaffirming the commission’s commitment, the INEC chairman stressed the importance of credible and transparent elections at all levels.
“Our responsibility is clear. We are committed to conducting elections into the offices of the President, National Assembly, Governors, State Houses of Assembly and Area Councils credibly and transparently,” he said.
In her remarks, Malafa thanked the commission for the warm reception and pledged to support its mission, particularly as preparations intensify for the upcoming elections.
“I am glad to be here and I look forward to working with everyone for the development and stability of our country, and for the success of forthcoming elections,” she said.
The event was attended by national commissioners, senior officials of the commission, and family members of the new appointee.
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