By Abubakar Abraham
In a significant step toward strengthening local governance, the Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission (KOSIEC), has released the official timetable and schedule of activities for the 2026 Local Government Council Elections, set to take place on Saturday, October 17, 2026.
The unveiling ceremony, held in Lokoja, was attended by representatives from various political parties and key security agencies, including the Nigerian Police, Nigeria Immigration Service, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, underscoring the collaborative effort to ensure a credible electoral process.
The timetable, is issued under the authority of Section 197(1)(b) and Paragraph 3 of Part II of the Third Schedule to the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), and in compliance with the Electoral Act, 2022, outlines a detailed roadmap for the elections.
Related News
Honourable Mamman Nda Eri, Chairman of KOSIEC, emphasised the Commission’s commitment to conducting a transparent, free, and fair election, noting that the schedule adheres strictly to legal provisions to uphold democratic principles in Kogi State.
According to him, the electoral process will commence on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, with the issuance of the Notice of Election, as mandated by Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022, which requires notification not later than 360 days before the election. This marks the formal launch of preparations, setting the stage for political activities to begin two days later, on Friday, October 24, 2025, under Section 13 of the Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission Law 2025.
From Monday, November 10, to Sunday, December 12, 2025, political parties will conduct their primaries and resolve any disputes arising therefrom, as stipulated by Sections 14(1) and 14(3) of the Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission Law 2025, and Section 84(13) of the Electoral Act, 2022.
This period allows parties to select their candidates through democratic processes and address internal conflicts to ensure only validly nominated candidates proceed.
Nomination forms will be available for collection by political parties at KOSIEC headquarters from Monday, December 15, to Friday, December 19, 2025. Parties are required to submit their lists of candidates by Friday, January 9, 2026.
Following this, KOSIEC will screen candidates and publish their personal particulars (Form EC9) from Monday, January 5, to Friday, January 9, 2026, ensuring transparency in the candidate selection process. These particulars will be displayed at KOSIEC headquarters and local government offices across the state.
The period for withdrawal and replacement of candidates is set for Thursday, January 16, to Wednesday, January 21, 2026, requiring written communication to the commission as per Section 31 of the Electoral Act, 2022. On Friday, January 30, 2026, KOSIEC will publish the final list of validly nominated candidates, in line with Section 32(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022, providing clarity on those eligible to contest.
Public campaigns by political parties will commence on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, not earlier than 150 days before the election, as mandated by Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022. This extended campaign period allows candidates to engage with voters across Kogi State’s 21 local government areas, presenting their manifestos and rallying support.
Campaigns will conclude 24 hours before Election Day, on Thursday, October 15, 2026, to ensure a calm atmosphere leading into the polls.
Political parties must submit the names of their party agents by Saturday, October 3, 2026, at least 14 days before the election, as required by Section 43 of the Electoral Act, 2022.
In addition, KOSIEC will publish the notice of election no later than October 3, 2026, reinforcing public awareness of the polling date.
On Election Day, Saturday, October 17, 2026, voting will commence at 8:00 AM and end at 3:00 PM, as stipulated by Section 44 of the Electoral Act, 2022.
Hon. Eri, noted that while the timetable is carefully structured, all dates are subject to change by KOSIEC if circumstances demand, provided such adjustments remain within the legal framework of the Electoral Act, 2022. This flexibility ensures the Commission can address unforeseen challenges, such as logistical issues or security concerns, without compromising the integrity of the process.
The presence of security agencies at the unveiling event highlights their critical role in maintaining peace and order throughout the election period.
The Nigerian Police, Immigration Service, and Civil Defence Corps have pledged their support to safeguard the process, from campaign rallies to polling day, ensuring a secure environment for voters, candidates, and electoral officials.
KOSIEC has called on all stakeholders, including political parties, candidates, and citizens, to adhere to the timetable and guidelines to ensure a smooth and credible election. The Commission emphasised the importance of cooperation in upholding democratic values, urging parties to conduct their primaries transparently and resolve disputes amicably.
It also encouraged voters to participate actively, stressing that the local government elections are vital for grassroots development and effective governance in Kogi State.
The 2026 elections will see the election of chairmen and Councillors across Kogi State’s local government councils, a critical tier of government responsible for delivering essential services such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure at the community level.
The outcome of these elections will shape local governance for the next term, making the process a cornerstone of democratic participation in the state.
Hon. Eri reiterated KOSIEC’s dedication to transparency and accountability, assuring stakeholders that the Commission will operate within the legal framework to deliver an election that reflects the will of the people. The public display of candidate particulars, publication of the final candidate list, and adherence to electoral laws are designed to build trust in the process.
As Kogi State prepares for the 2026 Local Government Elections, KOSIEC’s proactive release of the timetable sets a clear path forward. The Commission’s engagement with political parties and security agencies demonstrates a collaborative approach to ensuring a successful electoral exercise.
With the support of all stakeholders, KOSIEC aims to deliver an election that strengthens democracy and fosters development at the grassroots level.
