By Ameh Gabriel
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has published the final list of candidates contesting in the 2026 Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections.
In a statement signed by Sam Olumekun, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, INEC recalled that on August 18, 2025, it released the personal particulars of candidates who emerged from party primaries.
According to the Commission, a total of 17 political parties uploaded their candidates’ details (Form EC9) by the deadline of 6:00 p.m. on Monday, August 11, 2025. This was followed by the conclusion of the withdrawal and substitution period for candidates.
“Consequently, the Commission hereby publishes the final list of candidates that will contest in the 2026 FCT Area Council Election. The full list of the candidates by party, age, gender, and academic qualifications has been uploaded to our website and social media platforms for public information,” the statement read.
INEC further noted that with the release of the final list, no candidate can withdraw or be replaced, except in the case of death before Election Day, as provided by Section 34(1) of the Electoral Act.
The FCT Area Council election is scheduled to take place on Saturday, February 21, 2026
