INEC announces positive election timetable for party primaries

INEC Party Primaries Timetable released as commission sets June 16–25, 2026 dates for restored constituencies ahead of 2027 elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has fixed June 16 to June 25, 2026, for the conduct of party primaries in restored state constituencies across Benue, Delta, Jigawa and Kogi States as preparations intensify for the 2027 General Election.

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The announcement, which forms part of the INEC Party Primaries Timetable, was contained in a press statement issued on Wednesday by National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna.

According to the commission, the decision follows court judgments ordering the restoration of previously suppressed constituencies, with the exercise being carried out in line with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Electoral Act 2026.

In Benue State, the restored constituencies include Nyamatsor, Ukum Afia, Konshisha III (Shangev-Tiev), Makurdi III (South East) and Gboko III State Constituencies, which will now participate in the special primary elections.

INEC stated that the exercise will enable political parties to nominate candidates for the affected constituencies ahead of the general election, ensuring full representation in the 2027 electoral cycle.

“For the avoidance of doubt, all other timelines and activities contained in the already published revised Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 General Election shall apply to the restored constituencies,” the commission said.

The electoral body also directed all political parties to submit notices of their primaries to the commission ahead of the scheduled dates, stressing the need for compliance due to the special nature of the arrangement.

Timetable has been released for INEC party primaries reflects what officials describe as a structured effort to restore full electoral participation in affected constituencies while maintaining order and transparency in the process.

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Mohammed Kudu Haruna noted that the commission remains committed to credible, inclusive and transparent elections as preparations for the 2027 polls continue.

Mariam Balogun