INEC Announces Date for Guber Elections in Ekiti, Osun, Swears in New RECs

By : Olufemi Orunsola.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced Saturday, July 20, and Saturday, August 8, 2026, respectively, as dates for conducting governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun States.

OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News reports that the commission’s chairman, Prof. Mahmood made the announcement on Friday during the swearing-in of six newly appointed Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) who were recently confirmed by the National Assembly.

While speaking at the swearing-in ceremony, Prof.Yakubu reminded the newly sworn-in RECs that the conduct of elections in Nigeria is not only a huge responsibility but also a sacred duty.

The INEC chairman further said the commission is concluding arrangements for bye-elections to fill vacant seats in the National and State Houses of Assembly.

OTN News recalls that in the year 2022, Ekiti State gubernatorial election took place on 18 June 2022 to elect the Governor of Ekiti State. Incumbent APC governor Kayode Fayemi was term-limited and could not seek a third term. Former Secretary to the State Government Abiodun Oyebanji won the office for the APC by a 30% margin over first runner-up and SDP nominee—former Governor Olusegun Oni.

Similarly, in Osun State, the 2022 Osun State gubernatorial election took place on 16 July 2022 to elect the governor of Osun State. The thrn incumbent All Progressives Congress Governor Gboyega Oyetola was eligible for re-election but lost by a 3.5% margin to former Senator Ademola Adeleke, the flag bearer of the Peoples Democratic Party.