INEC Fixes February 21 For Rivers Bye-Elections
Nigeria’s electoral umpire, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has moved to fill vacant seats in the Rivers State House of Assembly, setting the stage for fresh political contests early next year.
The Independent National Electoral Commission, fixed Saturday, 21 February 2026, for bye-elections into the Ahoada East II and Khana II State Constituencies.
The decision was taken at an extraordinary meeting of the Commission held on Monday in Abuja.
INEC said the vacancies arose from the resignation of the Ahoada East II lawmaker and the death of the Khana II representative, with the Rivers State House of Assembly formally notifying the Commission.
According to the approved timetable, the notice of election will be published on January 22, 2026, while party primaries will take place between January 23 and 27.
Campaigns are scheduled to run from 8 February and close on 19 February, ahead of the polls.
The Commission said the elections are in line with Section 116 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which empowers INEC to conduct bye-elections to fill legislative vacancies.
INEC assured stakeholders of its readiness to deliver a credible process, as preparations also continue for the FCT Area Council elections on the same date.
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