By Nkechi Eze
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the final list of candidates for the 2026 Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council Elections, scheduled to hold on Saturday, 21st February 2026.
In a statement issued on Monday, 22nd September 2025, the Chairman of INEC’s Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), Mr. Sam Olumekun, mni, said the publication of the list followed the conclusion of the statutory period for the withdrawal and substitution of candidates as provided by law.
Mr. Olumekun recalled that on 18th August 2025, the Commission had earlier published the personal particulars of candidates that emerged from political party primaries. He explained that a total of 17 political parties submitted details of their candidates on Form EC9 by the deadline of 6:00 pm on Monday, 11th August 2025.
“With the publication of this final list, no further withdrawal or replacement of candidates will be allowed, except in the unfortunate event of the death of a candidate or running mate before Election Day, as provided by Section 34(1) of the Electoral Act,” he stated.
The INEC spokesman further disclosed that the comprehensive list of candidates, including their political parties, age, gender, and academic qualifications, has been uploaded on the Commission’s official website and social media platforms for public access and scrutiny.
He urged voters, political parties, and other stakeholders to take advantage of the publication to acquaint themselves with the details of those contesting for elective positions in the six Area Councils of the FCT.
