The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled Saturday, June 20, 2026, for conducting bye-elections across six states in Nigeria. This announcement came alongside the formal reception of a new National Commissioner, Rear Admiral Jamila Malafa (retired).
INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN, made the disclosure during a brief ceremony at the Commission’s Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, where the new commissioner was welcomed.
According to the Chairman, the bye-elections will coincide with the Ekiti State Governorship Election set for the same day. The elections aim to fill 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.
“We are approaching several off-cycle elections. The Ekiti Governorship Election is slated for June 20, 2026. On that day, the Commission will also hold bye-elections to address vacant positions,” Professor Amupitan stated.
He elaborated: “The vacant senatorial seats in Enugu, Nasarawa, Rivers, and Ondo will be contested, along with the Kebbi State Assembly seat and the Kano Federal Constituency seat.”
Regarding the new appointee, the Chairman praised Rear Admiral Malafa (retired) as a highly experienced professional with a strong background in both military service and electoral processes. He highlighted her previous collaboration with INEC on logistics and her tenure as Director of Legal Services in the Nigerian Navy, noting her valuable administrative and legal expertise.
The INEC Chairman reaffirmed the Commission’s dedication to its constitutional duties. “Our mandate is clear. We are committed to conducting credible and transparent elections for President, National Assembly, Governors, State Assemblies, and Area Councils,” he emphasized.
In her response, the newly inaugurated National Commissioner thanked the Commission for the warm welcome and vowed to contribute effectively to its objectives. “I am delighted to be here and grateful for the reception. I look forward to collaborating with everyone for the nation’s development and stability, and for the success of upcoming elections,” she said.
The event was attended by various National Commissioners, the Commission’s Secretary, the Director-General of The Electoral Institute (TEI), senior officials, and family members of the new commissioner.