The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revealed the official dates for the governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun States. According to the announcement, the elections will take place on Saturday, June 20, and Saturday, August 8, 2026, respectively.
This disclosure was made on Friday by INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, during the swearing-in ceremony of six newly appointed Resident Electoral Commissioners, whose appointments had been confirmed by the National Assembly.
“For Ekiti State, the election will be held on Saturday, 20th June 2026. However, party primaries will start on 20th October 2025 and end on 10th November 2025 to enable political parties to upload their nomination forms to the dedicated portal, which automatically shuts down by 6.00 pm on 22nd December 2025, i.e., not later than 180 days before the election. The final list of candidates will be published on 18th January 2026, while campaign in public by political parties will commence on 21st January 2026 and end 24 hours before election day,” Yakubu said.
He further stated the electoral schedule for Osun State, clarifying that the election is planned for Saturday, August 8, 2026. “In the case of Osun State, the election will be held on Saturday, 8th August 2026. Party primaries will start on 24th November 2025 and end on 15th December 2025. The portal for the upload of nomination forms by Political Parties closes at 6.00 pm on 9th February 2026, i.e,. not later than 180 days before the election. The final list of candidates will be published on 9th March 2026, while the campaign in public by political parties will commence on 11th March 2026 and end 24 hours before election day.”
Yakubu confirmed that the complete Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the governorship elections in both Ekiti and Osun States have been uploaded to the commission’s official website and social media handles to serve as guidance for political parties and the general public.
He acknowledged the increasing concern from Nigerians over the delay in organizing the outstanding bye-elections and the anticipated resumption of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) nationwide. “The number of bye-elections has now risen to 17. We are aware of the urgency to commence the CVR, particularly in view of the forthcoming Governorship election in Anambra State. We want to assure Nigerians that we are finalising our preparations for both activities, the details of which will soon be made public.”
He added that INEC is putting final touches on the arrangements for the conduct of bye-elections aimed at filling legislative vacancies in both the National and State Assemblies.
Yakubu reiterated INEC’s resolve to uphold its duty to the Nigerian people, promising timely updates and credible processes that will ensure the success of upcoming electoral events.
What you should know
INEC has confirmed June and August 2026 as the dates for the Ekiti and Osun governorship elections, respectively. The commission also plans to restart voter registration and conduct 17 bye-elections. Political parties must adhere strictly to set deadlines for primaries, nominations, and campaign activities.
