The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has published the final list of 17 candidates contesting in the 2026 Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections scheduled for Saturday, February 12, 2026.
This was disclosed in Abuja on Tuesday by Sam Olumekun, INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC).
Olumekun explained that the publication of the list followed the close of the statutory window for the withdrawal and substitution of candidates, as stipulated by the Electoral Act.
Earlier on August 18, INEC had released the personal particulars of candidates nominated by political parties following their primaries. By the August 11 deadline, a total of 17 political parties had successfully submitted their candidates’ details (Form EC9).
“With the publication of this final list, no further withdrawal or replacement of candidates will be permitted, except in the unfortunate event of the death of a candidate or running mate before election day, in line with Section 34(1) of the Electoral Act,” Olumekun clarified.
He further announced that the comprehensive list of candidates — including their political parties, age, gender, and academic qualifications — has been uploaded on INEC’s official website and social media platforms for public access and scrutiny.
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