The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed February 21, 2026, for bye-elections into the Ahoada East II and Khana II State Constituencies in Rivers State. The commission will conduct the polls on the same day as the Federal Capital Territory Area Council elections.
INEC reached the decision during an extraordinary meeting held on Monday in Abuja. At the same time, the commission reviewed preparations for the end-of-tenure Area Council elections scheduled nationwide.
According to INEC, Mohammed Haruna, Chairman of its Information, Voter Education and Publicity Committee, confirmed the development in an official statement.
INEC Cites Constitutional Authority
INEC approved the timetable and schedule of activities in line with its constitutional responsibilities. Specifically, the commission relied on Section 116 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) to fix the election date.
Under this provision, the Constitution empowers INEC to conduct bye-elections whenever vacancies occur in legislative houses. Consequently, the commission approved February 21, 2026, for the Rivers State polls.
How the Vacancies Occurred
INEC explained that the Ahoada East II seat became vacant after the lawmaker representing the constituency resigned. Meanwhile, the Khana II seat became vacant following the death of its representative.
Following these developments, the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly formally notified INEC of the vacancies. As a result, the commission initiated the constitutional process that led to the bye-elections.
Election Timetable and Key Dates
INEC will publish the notice of election on January 22, 2026. Thereafter, political parties must conduct their primaries between January 23 and January 27, including resolving disputes arising from the process.
Subsequently, campaigns will commence on February 8 and end on February 19. The commission will then conduct the bye-elections on February 21, 2026.
Finally, INEC assured political parties and voters that it will conduct credible, transparent, and peaceful elections in Rivers State.
