INEC Releases Final Voters List; Clears 17 Political Parties for February 21st, 2026 FCT Council Polls

Abuja, September 23, 2025

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially published the final list of candidates cleared to contest in the upcoming Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council Elections, scheduled for February 21, 2026.

In a statement released on Tuesday, INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, confirmed that 17 political parties met all legal requirements and have been cleared to participate in the polls.
According to Olumekun, the publication of the final list follows the expiration of the statutory window for the withdrawal and substitution of candidates, in accordance with the Electoral Act. This marks a key milestone in the Commission’s preparations for the elections, which will see voters in the FCT elect Chairmen and Councillors for the six Area Councils: Abaji, Bwari, Gwagwalada, Kuje, Kwali, and Abuja Municipal.

“The Commission wishes to notify the public that the final list of candidates for the FCT Area Council Elections is now available and has been published in our offices and online platforms,” Olumekun said.
INEC urged all political parties and candidates to conduct their campaigns within the confines of the law, emphasizing the Commission’s commitment to a transparent and credible electoral process.
The FCT Area Council elections are held every three years and remain a significant barometer for democratic participation in Nigeria’s capital territory.