The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled June 16 to June 25, 2026, for political parties to conduct primary elections in restored state constituencies across Benue, Delta, Jigawa and Kogi states ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The commission announced the development in a statement issued on Wednesday by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee.
According to INEC, the decision follows court judgments that ordered the restoration of several previously suppressed constituencies. The commission said the move was implemented in line with the provisions of 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.
INEC explained that the special primary elections are intended to enable political parties to nominate candidates for the restored constituencies ahead of the 2027 general election.
The commission clarified that the special primaries would not affect the broader election timetable already released for the 2027 polls.
“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 statement read.
INEC also directed all political parties participating in the exercise to submit notices of their primaries to the commission before the scheduled dates, noting the unique circumstances surrounding the restored constituencies.
The electoral body reaffirmed its commitment to delivering credible, inclusive and transparent elections as preparations for the 2027 General Election gather momentum.
The announcement marks another significant step in the commission’s preparations for the next electoral cycle, ensuring that residents of the restored constituencies are fully represented in the democratic process and have the opportunity to elect their representatives in 2027.
