The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that bye-elections will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026, in six states across Nigeria, coinciding with the Ekiti State Governorship Election. The decision was made during a formal ceremony at INEC’s headquarters in Abuja, where the Commission also welcomed Rear Admiral Jamila Malafa (rtd.) as a newly sworn-in National Commissioner. Chairman of the Commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, made the announcement, emphasizing the importance of filling vacant legislative seats to ensure democratic continuity.
The bye-elections will cover senatorial vacancies in Enugu, Nasarawa, Rivers, and Ondo States, as well as a State House of Assembly seat in Kebbi State and a House of Representatives seat in Kano State. These off-cycle elections are part of INEC’s constitutional responsibility to manage electoral processes in Nigeria. Prof. Amupitan stated that the Commission is committed to conducting all elections — including presidential, national assembly, gubernatorial, state assembly, and local government elections — in a credible and transparent manner.
He highlighted Rear Admiral Malafa’s extensive background, noting her previous roles in military logistics and as Director of Legal Services in the Nigerian Navy. Her experience in both military and electoral operations, he said, makes her a valuable addition to the Commission’s leadership team. “She brings a wealth of administrative and legal expertise,” Prof. Amupitan remarked, underscoring the Commission’s focus on professionalism and efficiency.
In her first remarks as a National Commissioner, Rear Admiral Malafa expressed gratitude for the warm reception and pledged her full commitment to the Commission’s mission. “I’m glad to be here and I thank you for the warm reception,” she said. “I look forward to working with everyone for the development and stability of our country, and for the success of forthcoming elections.” Her appointment is seen as a step toward strengthening INEC’s capacity to manage complex electoral tasks.
The ceremony was attended by other National Commissioners, the Secretary to the Commission, the Director-General of The Electoral Institute (TEI), senior INEC officials, and family members of the new commissioner. The event marked a significant moment in Nigeria’s electoral calendar, as the Commission prepares for multiple elections in the coming months. With bye-elections set for 2026, INEC is reinforcing its role as a key institution in Nigeria’s democratic governance.
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