The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled June 16 to 25, 2026, for political parties to conduct fresh primary elections in restored state constituencies across Benue, Delta, Jigawa and Kogi states ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The electoral body announced the development in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Chairman of its Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, following the restoration of several constituencies based on court judgments and provisions of the Constitution and the Electoral Act, 2026.
INEC said the affected constituencies include Nyamatsor, Ukum Afia, Konshisha III (Shangev-Tiev), Makurdi III (South East) and Gboko III in Benue State; Aniocha North II, Ika North East II, Sapele II, Ethiope West II, Warri South West II and Warri North II in Delta State; Aujara in Jigawa State; and 10 constituencies in Kogi State, namely Adavi East, Eika, Ajaokuta North, Bassa-Komu, Dekina Town & District, Ijumu II, Kabba-Bunu II, Koton Karfe II, Igalaogwa and Ogugu.
The commission explained that the exercise became necessary to enable residents of the restored constituencies to participate fully in the 2027 polls, particularly in the nomination of candidates by political parties.
“To facilitate the participation of the restored Constituencies in the 2027 General Election, particularly with respect to the nomination of candidates by Political Parties, the Commission has fixed the 16th-25th June, 2026 for the conduct of Political Party Primaries in the restored Constituencies,” the statement read.
INEC also clarified that every other activity contained in its revised timetable and schedule for the 2027 General Election remains unchanged and will apply to the affected constituencies.
The commission urged political parties to notify it ahead of the primaries, noting that the special arrangement requires advance submission of notices before the scheduled exercise.
“The Commission remains committed to ensuring credible, inclusive and transparent electoral processes,” Haruna stated.