INEC Conducts FCT Elections and Bye-Elections in Rivers, Kano

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is set to conduct its first major electoral exercise under the newly enacted Electoral Act 2026, which includes the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) area council elections on Saturday, alongside significant bye-elections in Rivers and Kano states. INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan disclosed that a total of 1,680,315 registered voters are expected to participate across 2,822 polling units in the FCT, where the elections will be directly conducted by INEC, unlike local government elections in other parts of the country.

This exercise is viewed as a strategic rehearsal ahead of the 2027 general elections. The bye-elections will take place in Rivers State's Ahoada East II and Khana II constituencies, as well as in Kano State's Kano Municipal and Ungogo constituencies.

The 2026 Electoral Act has established a bimodal voter accreditation system and an election result viewing portal to enhance transparency. Federal Capital Territory Minister Wike announced movement restrictions to ensure a smooth electoral process and urged residents to participate peacefully.