INEC restores suppressed constituencies in 4 states, fixes June for primary elections
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reinstated a number of previously suppressed constituencies across Benue, Delta, Jigawa, and Kogi States, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
The electoral body has also scheduled June 16 to June 25 for political parties to conduct primary elections in the affected constituencies in preparation for the 2027 general elections.
This was disclosed by INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, in a statement released on Thursday in Abuja.
Haruna explained that the restoration followed court rulings directing the commission to reinstate the affected constituencies in the four states.
In Benue State, the restored constituencies include Nyamatsor, Ukum Afia, Konshisha III (Shangev-Tiev), Makurdi III (South East), and Gboko III.
For Delta State, the reinstated constituencies are Aniocha North II, Ika North East II, Sapele II, Ethiope West II, Warri South West II, and Warri North II, while Aujara Constituency was restored in Jigawa State.
In Kogi State, the restored constituencies comprise Adavi East, Eika, Ajaokuta North, Bassa-Komu, Dekina Town and District, Ijumu II, Kabba-Bunu II, Koton Karfe II, Igala Ogwa, and Ogugu.
Haruna stated that political party primaries for these constituencies would hold between June 16 and June 25 to enable their full participation in the 2027 general elections, particularly in the nomination of candidates.
He clarified that all timelines and activities outlined in the already published revised timetable and schedule for the 2027 elections would remain applicable to the restored constituencies.
According to him, given the unique circumstances surrounding the restoration process, political parties are expected to notify the commission ahead of their scheduled primaries.
Haruna further reaffirmed INEC’s dedication to conducting elections that are credible, transparent, and inclusive, while ensuring that all eligible constituencies are adequately represented in the electoral process. (NAN)