INEC
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has commenced online accreditation for journalists and media organisations intending to cover the bye-elections scheduled to take place across six states on June 20, 2026.
In an official notice issued by the electoral commission, INEC said the accreditation portal has been opened to facilitate smooth and organised media coverage of the elections, urging all interested media houses to complete their registration within the approved timeframe.
The commission warned that late applications would not be accepted, stressing the importance of early registration to ensure seamless processing and deployment of accredited journalists and election observers.
According to INEC, the bye-elections will hold in several key constituencies and senatorial districts across the country following vacancies created by deaths, resignations or other political developments affecting elected offices.
The affected elections include the Dawaki Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency bye-election in Kano State, the Zuru State Constituency bye-election in Kebbi State, the Ondo South Senatorial District bye-election in Ondo State, the Rivers South East Senatorial District bye-election in Rivers State, the Nasarawa North Senatorial District bye-election in Nasarawa State, and the Enugu North Senatorial District bye-election in Enugu State.
INEC directed media organisations to process their applications through the commission’s dedicated online accreditation portal, noting that only duly accredited personnel would be granted access to polling units, collation centres and other official election activities.
The electoral body explained that the accreditation exercise is part of broader preparations aimed at ensuring transparent, credible and professionally monitored elections across the affected constituencies.
Political observers say the bye-elections are expected to attract significant national attention due to their political implications in several strategic states, especially as parties continue to strengthen their structures ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Analysts also note that the contests could serve as a test of political influence for major parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and other emerging opposition platforms seeking to expand their electoral presence.
INEC reiterated its commitment to conducting peaceful, transparent and credible elections while encouraging the media to play a responsible role in promoting voter education, accurate reporting and public confidence in the electoral process.
The commission also emphasised the critical role of the media in strengthening democracy through fair and balanced election coverage, timely dissemination of information and monitoring of electoral activities.
Stakeholders are expected to intensify campaigns and mobilisation efforts in the coming weeks as political parties prepare for what could become highly competitive contests in the affected constituencies and senatorial districts.
