INEC fixes June 16–25 primaries for restored constituencies ahead of 2027 elections

Politics

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed June 16 to June 25, 2026, for the conduct of political party primaries in constituencies recently restored by court orders across Benue, Delta, Jigawa, and Kogi states.

The electoral body said the move is aimed at enabling political parties to nominate candidates for the affected constituencies ahead of the 2027 General Election.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, INEC said the restoration followed judgments by competent courts directing the reinstatement of previously suppressed constituencies.

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According to the Commission, the action is in line with its constitutional mandate and the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2026.

The restored constituencies in Benue State are Nyamatsor, Ukum Afia, Konshisha III (Shangev-Tiev), Makurdi III (South East), and Gboko III State Constituencies.

In Delta State, the restored constituencies are Aniocha North II, Ika North East II, Sapele II, Ethiope West II, Warri South West II, and Warri North II State Constituencies.

For Jigawa State, the restored constituency is Aujara State Constituency.

In Kogi State, the restored constituencies include Adavi East, Eika, Ajaokuta North, Bassa-Komu, Dekina Town and District, Ijumu II, Kabba-Bunu II, Koton Karfe II, Igalaogwa, and Ogugu State Constituencies.

INEC said political parties are expected to conduct fresh primaries within the approved window to facilitate the participation of the restored constituencies in the 2027 electoral process.

The Commission clarified that all other timelines and activities contained in the already published revised Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 General Election remain applicable to the affected constituencies.

“In light of the peculiar nature of this arrangement, political parties are requested to submit notices of their primaries to the Commission prior to the scheduled dates,” the statement said.

INEC reaffirmed its commitment to conducting credible, inclusive, transparent, and legally compliant elections across the country.

The Commission urged political parties to strictly comply with all electoral guidelines and timelines to ensure a seamless nomination process in the restored constituencies.