INEC: Gombe Reps Constituency Bye-Election Timetable Released

• INEC has fixed September 19, 2026, for the bye-election to fill the vacant Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency seat.
• The election will be conducted in accordance with the 1999 Constitution and relevant provisions of the Electoral Act 2026.
• Political parties are expected to conduct their primaries between August 21 and 25, with the list of nominated candidates to be published on September 8.

The Commission calls on all political parties to strictly adhere to the timetable and schedule of activities and conduct their activities in accordance with the provisions of the law.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released a detailed schedule of activities for the upcoming bye-election in the Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency. The election, which will fill the vacant seat left by the late Tongo Yaya, is set to take place on Saturday, September 19, 2026. According to INEC's timetable, the Notice of Election will be published on Thursday, August 20, marking the beginning of a series of key events leading up to the election. Political parties participating in the election are expected to conduct their primaries between August 21 and 25, with the list of nominated candidates to be published on September 8.

The bye-election will be conducted in accordance with the 1999 Constitution and relevant provisions of the Electoral Act 2026. INEC has assured stakeholders that it will provide a level playing field for all political parties and candidates participating in the election, ensuring a free, fair, and inclusive process. The commission's commitment to upholding the law is evident in its call on political parties to strictly adhere to the timetable and conduct their activities accordingly. This emphasis on compliance with the law underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in the electoral process.

The bye-election holds significant implications for the people of Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency, who will be electing a new representative to fill the vacant seat. Eligible voters are urged to participate in the electoral process and exercise their civic responsibility peacefully. The election's outcome will also have far-reaching consequences for the constituency, with the winning candidate set to play a crucial role in shaping local policies and initiatives. As such, it is essential that all stakeholders, including political parties and candidates, conduct themselves in accordance with the law and respect the democratic process.

Lawyers representing clients in the Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency should note that the electoral commission has published a timetable for the upcoming bye-election, which includes key dates such as publication of the Notice of Election and commencement of campaigns.

Source: Original reporting via PUNCH