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

INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, made this announcement on Friday during the swearing-in ceremony of six newly appointed Resident Electoral Commissioners who were recently confirmed by the National Assembly.

During the ceremony, Prof. Yakubu emphasized the significance of electoral duties, stating, "The conduct of elections is not only a huge responsibility but also a sacred duty." He highlighted the challenging nature of conducting elections in Nigeria and the importance of upholding electoral integrity.

The INEC Chairman also revealed that the commission is currently finalizing arrangements for bye-elections to fill vacant seats in both the National and State Houses of Assembly, though specific dates for these bye-elections were not disclosed.

The announcement comes as part of INEC's constitutional mandate to conduct elections across Nigeria. The Ekiti and Osun governorship elections are significant as they will determine who leads these southwestern states for the next four years.

Political stakeholders and residents of both states are expected to begin preparations for the electoral process, which will include party primaries, campaigns, and other pre-election activities in the coming months.

The early announcement of these election dates, over a year in advance, provides ample time for all stakeholders, including political parties, candidates, and voters, to adequately prepare for the electoral process.