INEC sets June 20 for by-elections in six states – THIS UPDATE

By Victor Osula Abuja

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has set June 20, 2026, for holding by-elections in six states of the federation, in a move aimed at filling vacant legislative seats and strengthening democratic representation in the country.

The by-election will be held at the same time as the Ekiti State governorship election already scheduled for the same date.

Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony of the new National Commissioner of the Commission, Retired Rear Admiral Jamila Malafa, in Abuja on Thursday, INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, said the by-election will cover four senatorial districts in Enugu, Nasarawa, Rivers and Ondo states, as well as one House of Representatives seat in Kano State and one state House of Assembly seat in Kebbi State.

He said the Commission is fully committed to ensuring that citizens in the affected constituencies are adequately represented through transparent and credible electoral processes.

“We will have 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 the vacant seats.

“The senatorial seats declared vacant in Enugu, Nasarawa, Rivers and Ondo states will be filled, along with the Kebbi State House of Assembly seat and the Kano State House of Representatives seat,” Amupitan said.

During the ceremony, Amupitan also highlighted the importance of the appointment of retired Rear Admiral Jamila Malafa as National Commissioner, describing her as an experienced administrator with a distinguished record in public service.

He noted that Malafa brings vast experience from both the military and electoral sectors to the Commission, having previously worked with INEC in the logistics sector.

According to him, her previous role as Director of Legal Services in the Nigerian Navy further gives her the legal and administrative expertise needed to strengthen the operations of the Commission.

The INEC Chairman reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to uphold its constitutional responsibility to conduct free, fair and credible elections across Nigeria.

He stressed that the Commission remains focused on improving electoral processes and sustaining public confidence in national democracy.

In her remarks immediately after being sworn in, Malafa expressed appreciation to the Commission for its warm welcome and pledged to work diligently for the success of future elections.

“I am happy to be here and thank you for the warm welcome. I look forward to working with everyone for the development and stability of our country and for the success of the next elections,” he said.

His appointment is expected to strengthen INEC’s leadership structure as the Commission steps up preparations for upcoming nationwide electoral exercises.

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