The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled political party primaries from June 16 to June 25, 2026, for restored state constituencies in Benue, Delta, Jigawa, and Kogi states, as part of preparations for the 2027 General Election. This announcement was made in a statement on Wednesday by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee.
According to INEC, the decision follows court orders that mandated the reinstatement of several previously dissolved constituencies. The commission is acting in accordance with the Nigerian Constitution and the Electoral Act of 2026.
In Benue State, the affected areas include Nyamatsor, Ukum Afia, Konshisha III (Shangev-Tiev), Makurdi III (South East), and Gboko III State Constituencies.
The special primaries will allow political parties to select candidates for these restored constituencies ahead of the 2027 general elections. INEC emphasized that all other timelines and activities from the already published revised timetable will apply to these restored areas.
The electoral body also urged political parties to submit notices of their primaries to INEC before the specified dates, given the unique circumstances. INEC reiterated its commitment to ensuring credible, inclusive, and transparent electoral processes as the 2027 elections approach.