The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed June 20, 2026, for by-elections to fill vacant legislative seats across six states, aligning the exercise with the already scheduled Ekiti State governorship election.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, announced this on Thursday in Abuja during a brief ceremony to welcome newly sworn-in National Commissioner, Jamila Malafa, according to the commission’s official bulletin.
Yakubu noted that the commission is gearing up for a series of off-cycle elections, with several contests to be conducted simultaneously.
“We are approaching a number of off-cycle elections. The Ekiti State governorship election is scheduled for June 20, 2026, and on the same day, the commission will conduct by-elections to fill vacant seats,” he said.
He explained that the exercise will include senatorial by-elections in Enugu, Nasarawa, Rivers, and Ondo states, as well as a State House of Assembly election in Kebbi and a House of Representatives election in Kano State.
“The senatorial seats declared vacant in Enugu, Nasarawa, Rivers, and Ondo states will be filled, alongside the Kebbi State House of Assembly seat and the House of Representatives seat in Kano State,” he added.
Yakubu also formally welcomed Malafa, describing her as a seasoned professional with experience spanning military service and electoral administration. He highlighted her previous work with INEC, particularly in logistics, as well as her role as Director of Legal Services in the Nigerian Navy.
Reaffirming the commission’s mandate, the INEC chairman stressed its commitment to delivering credible and transparent elections at all levels of government.
“Our responsibility is clear. We remain committed to conducting elections into the offices of the President, National Assembly, Governors, State Houses of Assembly, and Area Councils in a credible and transparent manner,” he said.
In her remarks, Malafa expressed appreciation for her appointment and pledged to support the commission’s objectives, especially as it prepares for upcoming polls.
“I am honoured to be here and grateful for the warm reception. I look forward to working with everyone toward the stability of our country and the success of forthcoming elections,” she said.
The event 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 new appointee.
