INEC Fixes Ekiti and Osun Governorship Polls for 2026, Issues Strict Guidelines for Political Parties

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially announced the dates for the 2026 governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states. According to the commission, the Ekiti State gubernatorial election will be held on July 20, 2026, while the Osun State election will follow closely on August 8, 2026. The announcement marks the beginning of electoral activities in the two southwestern states and signals the countdown to another crucial test of Nigeria’s democratic resilience.

INEC delivered the formal notice of the Ekiti election during a stakeholder engagement meeting held in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital. The meeting brought together representatives of political parties, electoral officers, media professionals, and civil society organizations. Dr. Bunmi Omoseyindemi, the INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Ekiti State, made the declaration, emphasizing the commission’s dedication to upholding electoral integrity.

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Dr. Omoseyindemi stressed that INEC was acting in line with Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 (as amended), which empowers the commission to issue a notice of election not later than 360 days before the scheduled date. He stated that INEC had already published the Notice of Election across its state and local government offices, thereby officially initiating the electoral process.

He issued a stern reminder to political parties that the credibility of the election depends significantly on their compliance with laid-down procedures. He urged all parties to conduct their governorship primaries between October 20 and November 10, 2025, in strict accordance with the Electoral Act and INEC’s rules of engagement.

“This meeting is both symbolic and strategic,” Omoseyindemi remarked. “It marks the beginning of the electoral process and provides an opportunity for early engagement with political parties, the media, and other stakeholders on our collective responsibilities in ensuring a credible, inclusive, and peaceful election.”

He added that the timetable and schedule of activities had been released and distributed to all relevant political stakeholders. These documents outline key milestones including the commencement of campaigns, submission of candidate lists, publication of final nominees, and election day procedures.

INEC Reiterates Commitment to Credible and Transparent Elections

INEC used the platform to reaffirm its institutional commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and professionalism. Omoseyindemi said the commission is ready to deploy technology, manpower, and resources to ensure that the 2026 elections in both Ekiti and Osun meet national and international standards.

“As always, INEC remains committed to upholding the highest standards of transparency, professionalism, and fairness in all our processes,” he said. “We expect that political parties will reciprocate this by adhering strictly to the rules of engagement, particularly in the conduct of their party primaries, submission of candidates, and campaigns.”

The REC also called on political leaders to avoid hate speech, violence, and misinformation, warning that any party or individual found flouting electoral laws would face severe consequences.

Media and Public Urged to Support Electoral Integrity

Omoseyindemi acknowledged the critical role of the media in shaping public perception and safeguarding electoral credibility. He urged journalists and media houses to report election-related matters with objectivity and responsibility, especially in the era of misinformation and social media manipulation.

“To the media, we count on your professionalism and objectivity in reporting the electoral process and in countering misinformation, fake news, and inciting narratives that could undermine public confidence,” he said.

He also reached out to the general public, particularly the voters in Ekiti and Osun states, reassuring them of INEC’s resolve to deliver free, fair, and credible elections in 2026. He encouraged eligible citizens to participate actively, beginning with voter registration and engagement with the political process.

Countdown Begins for Ekiti and Osun Voters

With the dates now officially announced and the electoral timeline activated, political parties in Ekiti and Osun have just over a year to prepare. The success of the 2026 elections will depend largely on how well all stakeholders—including politicians, electoral officers, the media, and the electorate—play their respective roles.

INEC’s proactive approach and timely communication have drawn praise from observers who believe early preparations are crucial to minimizing last-minute errors and ensuring transparency. As the build-up to the elections begins, all eyes will be on how political parties manage their internal affairs and whether they can navigate the process peacefully and lawfully.

Ultimately, the Ekiti and Osun governorship polls will serve not only as a measure of democratic maturity in the region but also as a potential blueprint for future elections across the country.