Nigeria’s electoral body, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has scheduled a series of bye-elections for Saturday, June 20, 2026, to fill vacant legislative seats across the country.
The polls will take place in six states—Kebbi State, Kano State, Ondo State, Rivers State, Nasarawa State, and Enugu State—covering four senatorial districts, one seat in the House of Representatives, and one position in a State House of Assembly.
Why the Seats Became Vacant
Several of the vacancies arose under different circumstances.
In Ondo, the senatorial seat opened up after Jimoh Ibrahim took on a diplomatic role as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations.
Rivers State is heading to the polls following the death of Barinada Mpigi, while Nasarawa is filling the seat left by the late Godiya Akwashika.
In Enugu, the vacancy resulted from the passing of Okey Ezea.
Beyond the senatorial contests, voters in Kano State will elect a new member of the House of Representatives, while Kebbi State will conduct a poll to fill a vacant seat in its State House of Assembly.
INEC’s Preparations for Multiple Polls
Interestingly, the same date has also been set for the Ekiti State governorship election, meaning multiple electoral exercises will be conducted nationwide on June 20.
INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, disclosed the timetable during the swearing-in ceremony of a new National Commissioner, Jamila Malafa (rtd.).
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He noted that the commission is gearing up to manage simultaneous elections, assuring that preparations are underway to ensure smooth conduct across all affected constituencies.