INEC publishes final list of candidates for 2026 FCT Area Council election

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has released the final list of candidates for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council Election.

In a statement on Monday signed by INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, the electoral body said political parties can no longer withdraw or substitute their candidates, except in the event of death.

“With this publication, no further withdrawal or replacement of candidates will be allowed except in the event of the death of a candidate or running mate before election day, as provided by Section 34(1) of the Electoral Act,” Olumekun stated.

He recalled that on 18 August 2025, the commission published the personal particulars of candidates who emerged from primaries conducted by political parties for the 2026 FCT Area Council Election.

“A total of 17 political parties uploaded the particulars of their candidates (Form EC9) by the deadline of 6:00 p.m. on Monday, 11 August 2025, at the end of the period for withdrawal and substitution of candidates.

“Consequently, the commission hereby publishes the final list of candidates that will contest the 2026 FCT Area Council Election,” the statement added.

INEC also noted that the full list of candidates, including their party affiliation, age, gender, and academic qualifications, has been uploaded to its website and social media platforms for public information.