INEC lists 17 parties to contest 2026 FCT area council polls

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC has published the final list of candidates for the February 21, 2026 Federal Capital Territory Area Council Election, confirming that 17 political parties were cleared to contest.

INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun who disclosed this in a statement, says the parties successfully uploaded the particulars of their candidates, Form EC9, by the deadline of 6pm on August 11, 2025, following the conclusion of primaries.

Consequently, the Commission released the final list of candidates, detailing their party affiliation, age, gender, and academic qualifications.

INEC noted that the publication of final list of candidates followed the expiration of the window for withdrawal and substitution of candidates as it says the information is available on its website and social media platforms for public access.

INEC stressed that with this publication, no further withdrawals or substitutions would be entertained, except in the event of the death of a candidate or running mate before Election Day as stipulated in Section 34(1) of the Electoral Act.

The 2026 FCT Area Council election is scheduled for Saturday, February 21, 2026.

AIT News