ABUJA, Nigeria — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled the 2026 governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states for Saturday, June 20, 2026 and Saturday, August 8, 2025 respectively.
The dates were announced by INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, on Friday, May 30, 2025, during the swearing-in ceremony of six newly appointed Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) in Abuja.
In accordance with statutory requirements, INEC is required to publish notices for major elections no later than 360 days before the scheduled date.
Yakubu said the commission has complied with the law by finalising and approving the full timetable and schedule of activities for the upcoming elections in both states.
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Election Date: Saturday, June 20, 2026
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Party Primaries: October 20 – November 10, 2025
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Deadline for Submission of Nomination Forms: December 22, 2025 (by 6:00 p.m.)
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Final List of Candidates: January 18, 2026
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Campaign Period: January 21 – June 19, 2026
Osun Governorship Election Timetable
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Election Date: Saturday, August 8, 2026
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Party Primaries: November 24 – December 15, 2025
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Deadline for Submission of Nomination Forms: February 9, 2026 (by 6:00 p.m.)
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Final List of Candidates: March 9, 2026
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Campaign Period: March 11 – August 7, 2026
Yakubu said the schedules have been uploaded to INEC’s official website and social media platforms to guide political parties and inform the public.
The INEC chairman also addressed concerns over the growing number of pending bye-elections and the nationwide resumption of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise.
“The number of bye-elections has now risen to 17,” Yakubu revealed.
“We are aware of the urgency to commence the CVR, particularly in view of the forthcoming governorship election in Anambra State. We want to assure Nigerians that we are finalising our preparations for both activities, the details of which will soon be made public.”
