***Issues Formal Notice of Election
By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
The Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission (KOSIEC) has announced that local government council elections across the 21 local government areas of the state will hold on Saturday, October 17, 2026.
The Chairman of the Commission, Hon. Mamman Nda Eri, made the announcement on Wednesday in Lokoja during a stakeholders’ meeting with political parties, civil society groups, and members of the Commission.
Eri said the decision was in line with constitutional provisions and the Electoral Act 2022, which mandates the publication of a Notice of Election not later than 360 days before the poll date.
“In exercise of the powers conferred on the Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission (KOSIEC) by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), the Electoral Act 2022, and the Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission Law 2025, the Commission hereby gives notice of election into the offices of Chairmen of the 21 Local Government Areas and Councillors of the 239 Electoral Wards in Kogi State,” Eri said.
He disclosed that the timetable and schedule of activities for the elections — including the conduct of party primaries, submission of candidates’ lists, publication of nominated candidates, and campaign timelines — would be released on Friday, October 24, 2025.
Eri stressed that only political parties duly registered by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) are eligible to sponsor candidates for the elections, in accordance with the law.
“All political parties, aspirants, and stakeholders are advised to strictly adhere to the electoral timetable, the Electoral Act, and KOSIEC guidelines to ensure free, fair, credible, and peaceful elections,” he stated.
He further announced that the Commission’s headquarters at No. 1, Ado Ibrahim Road, GRA, Lokoja shall serve as the official venue for the delivery of nomination papers for all elective positions.
The Commission, he said, remains committed to conducting elections that reflect the will of the people and strengthen grassroots democracy in Kogi State.
