The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that the Area Council election in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) will take place on February 21, 2026. The election will cover six Area Councils: Abaji, Amac, Bwari, Kuje, Kwali, and Gwagwalada.
According to INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, the notice for the election will be published on February 26, 2025, in line with Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act 2022. Party primaries will be held from June 9-30, 2025. Yakubu emphasized that INEC is responsible for conducting local government elections in the FCT, which is the only part of the country where the commission conducts such elections.
In his speech, Professor Yakubu noted that 2025 will be a busy year for INEC, with several electoral activities lined up, including the Anambra State Governorship election scheduled for November 8, 2025. He reminded political parties that primaries for the Anambra State Governorship election will begin on March 20, 2025, and end on April 10, 2025.
Professor Yakubu also highlighted the challenges faced by INEC, including the conduct of bye-elections, which he noted are costly and divert the commission’s attention from other electoral responsibilities. He advocated for a more cost-effective alternative means of filling vacancies, as is the case in many jurisdictions around the world.
Furthermore, Professor Yakubu disclosed that INEC requires ₦126 billion to fund its activities in 2025 and prepare for the 2027 general elections.
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