The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled June 16 to June 25, 2026, for political parties to conduct primaries in newly restored state constituencies across Benue, Delta, Jigawa and Kogi states as part of preparations for the 2027 General Election.
According to an official signed statement by the National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, INEC, Mohammed Haruna, the decision followed court judgments directing the restoration of constituencies that had previously been suppressed.
The Commission stated that the restoration was carried out in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), and the Electoral Act, 2026.
INEC disclosed that the restored constituencies in Benue State are Nyamatsor, Ukum Afia, Konshisha III (Shangev-Tiev), Makurdi III (South East) and Gboko III. In Delta State, the constituencies restored are Aniocha North II, Ika North East II, Sapele II, Ethiope West II, Warri South West II and Warri North II.
The Commission also restored Aujara State Constituency in Jigawa State, while Kogi State regained Adavi East, Eika, Ajaokuta North, Bassa-Komu, Dekina Town and District, Ijumu II, Kabba-Bunu II, Koton Karfe II, Igala-Ogba and Ogugu State Constituencies.
INEC explained that the special primaries are necessary to enable political parties nominate candidates from the restored constituencies for participation in the 2027 General Election.
The electoral body further clarified that all timelines, schedules and activities contained in the already published revised Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 General Election remain applicable to the affected constituencies.
Given the special nature of the exercise, the Commission urged political parties to submit notices of their primaries ahead of the scheduled dates to facilitate effective monitoring and compliance with electoral regulations.
INEC reaffirmed its commitment to conducting credible, inclusive and transparent elections, assuring stakeholders of its readiness to ensure that residents of the restored constituencies fully participate in the electoral process leading to the 2027 General Election.
