The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced June 20, 2026, as the date for by-elections to fill vacant legislative seats across six states, coinciding with the already scheduled Ekiti State governorship election.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, disclosed this on Thursday in Abuja during a brief ceremony welcoming a newly sworn-in National Commissioner, Jamila Malafa. The announcement was contained in the commission’s official bulletin.
Amupitan said the commission was preparing for a series of off-cycle elections, noting that multiple electoral contests would be conducted on the same day to improve efficiency and coordination.
“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.
The by-elections will cover senatorial seats in Enugu, Nasarawa, Rivers, and Ondo States, alongside a State House of Assembly seat in Kebbi and a House of Representatives seat in Kano State.
Amupitan added that the exercise was part of INEC’s ongoing efforts to ensure that all vacant legislative positions are promptly filled in line with constitutional provisions.
He also formally welcomed Jamila Malafa to the commission, describing her as a seasoned professional with experience in military service and electoral administration. He highlighted her previous work in logistics within INEC and 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 across all levels of government.
“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 expressed appreciation for her appointment and pledged to support the commission’s objectives as it prepares for upcoming electoral activities.
“I am 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.
The event was attended by national commissioners, senior INEC officials, the Secretary to the Commission, the Director-General of the Electoral Institute, and family members of the new appointee.
