INEC to Implement 2026 Electoral Act in Upcoming FCT and State Bye-Elections

Introduction to the New Electoral Framework

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is preparing to conduct its inaugural major election under the recently enacted 2026 Electoral Act. Scheduled for Saturday, February 20, 2026, this electoral exercise will take place in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and select constituencies within Rivers and Kano states. This event marks a critical early application of the updated electoral legislation signed into law by President Bola Tinubu, setting the stage for future nationwide elections.

Scope and Significance of the Elections

These elections encompass Area Council polls across the FCT and bye-elections in specific state constituencies. In Rivers State, the contests will be held in Ahoada East II and Khana II constituencies, while Kano State will see electoral activities in Kano Municipal and Ungogo constituencies. Political analysts view this exercise as a strategic rehearsal for the 2027 general elections, providing valuable insights into INEC’s operational readiness under the new legal framework.

Voter Demographics and Polling Infrastructure

According to INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, SAN, the FCT elections will engage approximately 1,680,315 registered voters distributed across 2,822 polling units within the six Area Councils. This extensive voter base underscores the logistical complexity and importance of the exercise as a benchmark for future electoral processes.

Technological Innovations Embedded in the 2026 Electoral Act

A pivotal advancement introduced by the 2026 Electoral Act is the formal endorsement of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the Election Results Viewing Portal (IReV). These technologies are designed to bolster transparency, accuracy, and public confidence in the electoral process by enabling real-time voter verification and result dissemination. The integration of these tools represents a significant leap forward in Nigeria’s electoral integrity efforts.

Preparations and Security Measures Ahead of the Polls

Given that INEC exclusively administers local government elections within the FCT, this upcoming poll is widely regarded as a litmus test for the commission’s capacity to implement the amended electoral law effectively. In anticipation, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has declared Friday, February 19, 2026, a public holiday to facilitate voter participation by allowing residents to return to their home communities.

Additionally, a temporary curfew will be enforced from 8:00 p.m. on February 20 until 6:00 p.m. on February 21, 2026, restricting movement within the FCT. Security agencies have been mandated to ensure strict adherence to this directive to maintain order and safeguard the electoral process.

Call for Peaceful Participation

Through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, Minister Wike has urged all residents to engage peacefully in the elections. He emphasized the critical role of electing competent chairpersons and councillors who will effectively govern the six Area Councils, thereby contributing to the overall development and stability of the FCT.

Looking Forward: Implications for Nigeria’s Electoral Landscape

This electoral exercise not only tests the practical application of the 2026 Electoral Act but also serves as a barometer for Nigeria’s democratic maturity. With over 1.6 million voters in the FCT alone and the deployment of cutting-edge electoral technology, the upcoming polls could set new standards for transparency and efficiency in Nigerian elections. The outcomes and lessons learned will undoubtedly influence preparations for the nationwide general elections slated for 2027.