The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled the governorship elections for Ekiti State on Saturday, June 20, 2026, and Osun State on Saturday, August 8, 2026.
INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu disclosed this on Friday during the swearing-in of six newly appointed Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs), recently confirmed by the National Assembly.
Key Election Timelines
Ekiti State:
- Party Primaries: October 20 – November 10, 2025
- Nomination Portal Closes: December 22, 2025 (6:00 PM)
- Final Candidate List Published: January 18, 2026
- Campaign Period: January 21, 2026, until 24 hours before election day
Osun State:
- Party Primaries: November 24 – December 15, 2025
- Nomination Portal Closes: February 9, 2026 (6:00 PM)
- Final Candidate List Published: March 9, 2026
Campaign Period: March 11, 2026, until 24 hours before election day
Yakubu noted that the full timetable for both elections has been uploaded to INEC’s website and social media platforms for public access.
Pending Bye-Elections & Voter Registration
The commission also addressed concerns over 17 pending bye-elections and the resumption of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR). Yakubu assured Nigerians that preparations for both activities are nearing completion, with details to be announced soon—particularly in light of the upcoming Anambra governorship election.
Additionally, INEC is finalizing arrangements to fill vacant seats in the National and State Houses of Assembly.
