The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has set February 21, 2026, as the date for local government elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This announcement, made by INEC Chairman Professor Mahmood Yakubu during a consultative meeting with political party leaders at the INEC Conference Centre in Abuja, signifies the commission’s readiness to oversee the elections in the six area councils of the FCT.
As the only local government elections conducted directly by INEC in Nigeria, these polls hold a unique significance. Professor Yakubu explained that the decision complies with Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which requires INEC to issue an election notice at least 360 days before the scheduled date. He further highlighted that the tenure of the current chairpersons and councillors will expire in 2026, necessitating timely elections to ensure seamless governance.
The elections will take place in all designated polling units across the 68 constituencies of the FCT, with voters set to elect six area council chairpersons and 62 councillors. INEC plans to publish the official election notice on February 26, 2025, with party primaries scheduled to be held between June 9 and June 30, 2025.
Professor Yakubu also addressed the commission’s broader agenda, including the resumption of the nationwide Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise and the resolution of outstanding bye-elections. Since the inauguration of the current National and State Assemblies in June 2023, 23 vacancies have arisen, leading to a series of bye-elections.
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The INEC Chairman described the challenges associated with bye-elections, which are often unpredictable, unbudgeted, and costly. He noted instances where a single bye-election triggered subsequent vacancies, such as when a House of Representatives member won a senatorial bye-election, necessitating additional elections. These cascading elections have diverted the commission’s attention from other responsibilities and raised concerns about financial and operational sustainability.
Over the past nine years, INEC has advocated for cost-effective alternatives to filling legislative vacancies, as practiced in other countries. Professor Yakubu urged political parties and stakeholders to join this campaign, emphasizing the need for legislative amendments to streamline the electoral process.
“Three weeks ago, during the defence of our 2025 budget before the National Assembly’s joint committee, we reiterated our position on this issue,” Yakubu said. “It is encouraging that more Nigerians are now supporting this advocacy. Together, we can continue to reform and enhance our electoral system.”