The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially announced the conduct of bye-elections for two vacant seats in the Rivers State House of Assembly, setting the stage for renewed political activity in the oil-rich state. The elections, scheduled for February 21, 2026, will take place in the Ahoada East II and Khana II State Constituencies, both of which have remained without representation following separate circumstances that led to the vacancies.
INEC’s decision follows formal communication from the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, who notified the electoral body of the vacancies in line with constitutional and electoral requirements. According to the Commission, the Ahoada East II seat became vacant after the resignation of its former lawmaker, while the Khana II seat was declared vacant following the death of its representative. These developments triggered the constitutional obligation on INEC to organize bye-elections to ensure that the affected constituencies are not left without legislative representation.
In a statement accompanying the announcement, INEC emphasized its commitment to upholding democratic principles by ensuring that citizens in the affected areas are given the opportunity to elect new representatives to speak for them in the State Assembly. The Commission noted that timely representation is crucial for effective lawmaking, oversight, and constituency advocacy, particularly in a state as politically and economically significant as Rivers. To this end, INEC released a detailed timetable and schedule of activities outlining the key stages leading up to the polls. The Notice of Election was published on January 22, 2026, formally signaling the commencement of the electoral process.
This step marks the official entry point for political parties and stakeholders to begin preparations in accordance with the Electoral Act and INEC guidelines. Party primaries, including the resolution of any disputes arising from the nomination process, are scheduled to take place between January 23 and January 27, 2026. During this period, political parties are expected to conduct transparent and credible primaries to select their candidates for the bye-elections. INEC has repeatedly warned parties to adhere strictly to their constitutions and the provisions of the Electoral Act, stressing that internal party democracy remains a cornerstone of credible elections.
Following the conclusion of party primaries, attention will shift to the campaign phase. According to the timetable, public campaigns by parties and candidates will commence on February 8, 2026, and end on February 19, 2026. INEC reminded political actors that campaigns must be issue-based, peaceful, and conducted in line with the law. The Commission also cautioned against hate speech, violence, and the misuse of state resources, noting that security agencies will work closely with electoral officials to maintain law and order throughout the campaign period. Election Day has been fixed for February 21, 2026, when registered voters in Ahoada East II and Khana II constituencies will head to the polls to choose their new representatives.
INEC assured voters that all necessary arrangements would be put in place to ensure a smooth and credible process, including the deployment of trained ad hoc staff, timely distribution of election materials, and the use of technological tools to enhance transparency. The announcement of the bye-elections has already begun to generate political interest across Rivers State, with major political parties expected to contest the seats vigorously. Rivers has long been regarded as one of Nigeria’s most politically active states, often witnessing intense competition among parties. Analysts believe the outcome of the bye-elections could have broader implications for the balance of power within the Rivers State House of Assembly, especially given the state’s dynamic political landscape. For the people of Ahoada East II and Khana II, the bye-elections represent more than just a routine political exercise.
Many residents have expressed hope that the elections will usher in representatives who can effectively articulate their concerns, attract development projects, and provide strong oversight of the executive arm of government. In both constituencies, issues such as infrastructure, employment, environmental degradation, and access to basic social services remain key concerns for voters. Civil society organizations and election observers have also welcomed INEC’s timely action, urging the Commission to sustain transparency and neutrality throughout the process.
Some groups have called for increased voter education ahead of the polls, noting that bye-elections often suffer from low voter turnout compared to general elections. They emphasized the need for INEC, political parties, and the media to intensify awareness campaigns to encourage citizens to participate actively in the democratic process. Security remains another critical factor as the elections approach. Rivers State has, in the past, experienced pockets of election-related violence, particularly during highly contested polls.
In response, INEC has reiterated its collaboration with security agencies to ensure a peaceful environment before, during, and after the elections. The Commission stressed that anyone found attempting to disrupt the process or undermine the credibility of the elections would face the full weight of the law. As preparations gather momentum, political stakeholders are closely watching how parties will navigate their primaries and campaigns. The bye-elections offer an opportunity for parties to test their grassroots strength and for aspiring lawmakers to connect directly with constituents.
For INEC, the polls will serve as another test of its capacity to deliver credible elections amid heightened public scrutiny. Ultimately, the February 21, 2026 bye-elections are expected to restore full representation to the Rivers State House of Assembly and reinforce democratic governance at the state level. With the timetable now in place, all eyes will be on INEC, political parties, security agencies, and voters to play their respective roles in ensuring that the process is free, fair, and reflective of the will of the people.