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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 ahead of the 2027 General Election.
INEC announced the development in a statement issued on Wednesday by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna.
According to the commission, the restoration of the constituencies followed court judgments directing the reinstatement of previously suppressed electoral constituencies in the affected states. The action, INEC said, was taken in line with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, and the Electoral Act 2026.
In Benue State, the restored constituencies are Nyamatsor, Ukum Afia, Konshisha III (Shangev-Tiev), Makurdi III (South East), and Gboko III. Delta State has six restored constituencies comprising 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 gained ten constituencies, namely Adavi East, Eika, Ajaokuta North, Bassa-Komu, Dekina Town and District, Ijumu II, Kabba-Bunu II, Koton Karfe II, Igalaogwa and Ogugu.
INEC explained that the special timetable became necessary to enable the restored constituencies participate fully in the 2027 electoral process, particularly in the nomination of candidates by political parties.
The electoral body clarified that all other activities and deadlines contained in its previously published revised timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 General Election would remain applicable to the restored constituencies.
It further directed political parties to submit notices of their primaries to the commission before the scheduled dates, citing the unique nature of the arrangement.
INEC reaffirmed its commitment to conducting credible, inclusive and transparent elections, assuring stakeholders that all necessary measures would be taken to ensure the successful integration of the restored constituencies into the electoral process.
The restoration is expected to expand political representation in the affected areas and provide residents of the constituencies with the opportunity to elect representatives in their respective state assemblies during the 2027 elections.
