The Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission (KOSIEC) has announced October 17, 2026, as the date for the conduct of local government elections across the state.
Chairman of the commission, Mr. Nderi Mamman, disclosed this on Wednesday during a stakeholders’ meeting held in Lokoja, the state capital.
Mamman said the elections would cover chairmanship and councillorship positions across the 21 local government areas and 239 wards of the state.
He explained that the notice of election was issued in line with Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022, which requires the publication of an election notice not later than 360 days before the appointed date.
According to him, a detailed timetable outlining key activities—such as party primaries, submission of candidates’ lists, publication of nominated candidates, and campaign schedules—will be released on October 24.
Mamman added that only political parties duly registered and recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) would be eligible to sponsor candidates, in compliance with the Electoral Act and the KOSIEC Law.
He urged political parties, aspirants, and other stakeholders to adhere strictly to the relevant laws and guidelines to ensure a free, fair, and credible poll.
Stakeholders at the meeting commended the commission for issuing the election notice early and called for increased voter education and public awareness to encourage participation and transparency in the electoral process.