INEC Reaffirms Commitment to Transparent and Inclusive Elections
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy through inclusive, transparent, and credible electoral processes. This commitment was emphasized during a quarterly consultative meeting with leaders of political parties held at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
Acting Chairman of the Commission, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, expressed this assurance on Tuesday, highlighting the importance of maintaining public trust in the electoral system. Political party leaders urged INEC to continue refining the nation’s democratic framework to meet the expectations of citizens who seek the true benefits of constitutional governance.
Presiding over her first consultative meeting with political party leaders, Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu acknowledged the contributions of the Commission’s immediate past Chairman, who played a significant role in advancing democracy across Nigeria and the African continent during his decade-long tenure.
Upcoming Elections and Key Activities
Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu outlined several upcoming elections and electoral activities, including:
- Bye-elections in 12 states of the Federation on 16th August 2025
- Anambra State Governorship Election on 8th November 2025
- Area Council Elections in the FCT on 21st February 2026
- Ekiti Governorship Election on 20th June 2026
- Osun State Governorship Election on 8th August 2026
The bye-elections were held across two Senatorial Districts, five Federal Constituencies, and nine State Assembly Constituencies. Two court-ordered re-run elections took place in Enugu and Kano States on the same day. All declarations and returns were made in compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2022, and certificates of return have been presented.
The Commission has released the timetable and schedule of activities for the other elections, with some activities already carried out. The latest developments include the commencement of campaigns by political parties in Anambra State and the FCT, as well as the publication of notices of election for the Ekiti and Osun State governorship elections.
Progress on the Anambra State Governorship Election
The Anambra State Governorship Election, scheduled for 8th November 2025, is set to involve 13 key activities. Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu noted that the Commission has completed 10 of these activities, with the remaining ones being:
- Publication of Notice of Poll on 25th October 2025
- Last day for Campaigns on 6th November 2025
- Date of the Election on 8th November 2025
The Commission remains committed to adhering strictly to the timetable and schedule of activities. Political parties are urged to comply with the last day for campaigns and follow the guidelines set by the Commission.
In preparation for the election, INEC has engaged with security agencies at national, state, and local government levels. Non-sensitive materials for the election have been delivered to the state, and voter education and sensitization efforts are ongoing.
Area Council Election in the FCT
The Area Council Election in the FCT, scheduled for 21st February 2026, will be held in 68 constituencies, comprising Chairmen and their deputies for six Area Councils: Abaji, Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, and Kwali. Additionally, 62 Wards will be drawn based on ten Wards per Area Council, except AMAC, which has 12 Wards due to its population.
The timetable and schedule of activities for the Area Council Election include 13 key activities, eight of which have already been carried out. The remaining activities include:
- Last day for submission of names of polling agents
- Publication of the official register of voters
- Publication of notice of poll
- Last day for campaigns
- Date of the election
Ongoing Voter Registration and Political Party Registration
Speaking about the continuous voter registration (CVR) exercise, Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu stated that it resumed nationwide on 18th August 2025 for online pre-registration and 25th August 2025 for in-person registration at all INEC offices. The exercise will run for a full year and end on 30th August 2026. The Commission has received a positive response from Nigerians, reflecting their belief in the democratic process and the Commission’s efforts to ensure every eligible citizen can participate.
Regarding the registration of new political parties, 14 associations out of 171 that applied have been pre-qualified after meeting the necessary requirements. Each application was assessed based on compliance with relevant constitutional and electoral laws.
Political Party Leaders’ Remarks
Speaking on behalf of the political parties, National Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council, Alhaji Yusuf Dantalle, emphasized the need to continue sanitizing the democratic system to meet the expectations of citizens. He highlighted the importance of credible, transparent, and inclusive elections where every vote counts.
Dantalle noted that the success of the Anambra State governorship election on 8th November 2025 will set the stage for future elections, including the 2026 FCT Area Council polls, the 2026 gubernatorial elections in Osun and Ekiti States, and the 2027 general election. He urged INEC to maintain high standards and justify the confidence placed in the Commission.
As the umbrella body of all registered political parties, IPAC pledged its support in consolidating democracy, ensuring an environment conducive for successful elections, and promoting political stability and the overall well-being of Nigerians.
