The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially announced the dates for the upcoming governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun States. According to INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, the Ekiti State governorship election will hold on Saturday, July 20, 2026, while that of Osun State is scheduled for Saturday, August 8, 2026.
Professor Yakubu made this announcement in Abuja during the swearing-in ceremony of newly appointed Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs), marking a significant step in the Commission’s preparation for the 2026 electoral cycle.
“The elections in Ekiti and Osun states will be conducted in strict compliance with the Constitution and the Electoral Act,” Yakubu stated, emphasizing INEC’s commitment to transparency, credibility, and the early release of the election timetable.
He further called on political parties, civil society organizations, security agencies, and the general public to support INEC in delivering free, fair, and credible polls in both states.
The tenure of the current governors of Ekiti and Osun States is expected to expire in October and November 2026 respectively, in line with the constitutional provisions mandating elections to be held not earlier than 150 days and not later than 30 days before the expiration of their terms.
With the release of these dates, political activities are expected to intensify in both states as stakeholders begin preparations ahead of the elections.?