The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the official dates for the 2026 governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states.
The elections are scheduled for June 20, 2026, in Ekiti State and August 8, 2026, in Osun State.
This was confirmed by INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, during the swearing-in ceremony of six newly appointed Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) in Abuja on Friday, May 30, 2025.
Mahmood declared that the announcement is in line with the legal requirement to publish election notices at least 360 days in advance, ensuring transparency and preparedness for these critical off-cycle polls.
He added that in preparation for the 2026 governorship elections, INEC had published a detailed timeline on its official website to guide political parties and stakeholders.
A breakdown of the 2026 governorship elections timeline shows that party primaries are to be held between October 20 and November 10, 2025 in Ekiti State.
Political parties must upload their nomination forms by 6pm on December 22, 2025.
The final list of candidates will be published on January 18, 2026, while campaigns will begin on January 21 and end 24 hours before the election.
In Osun State, party primaries will be conducted from November 24 to December 15, 2025.
The nomination portal closes at 6pm on February 9, 2026. The final list of candidates will be released on March 9, 2026, and political campaigns will run from March 11 until a day before the election.
He announced: “In line with the requirements of the law, the commission is under legal obligation to publish the notices for major elections not later than 360 days before the date fixed for the election.
“In compliance with the law, the commission has approved the timetable and schedule of activities for the Ekiti and Osun State governorship elections. The last governorship elections in the two states were held in June and July 2022. The four-year tenure of the governors will end next year.
“For Ekiti State, the election will be held on Saturday, 20th June 2026.
“In the case of Osun State, the election will be held on Saturday, 8th August 2026.”
