The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed that 65 candidates from 17 political parties will contest the February 21, 2026, Area Council Elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

In a statement signed by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Okumekun, INEC noted that the release of the final list of candidates officially concludes the nomination process across the six Area Councils.

The commission recalled that on August 18, 2025, it had published the personal particulars of candidates who emerged from party primaries ahead of the elections.

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“A total of 17 Political Parties uploaded the particulars of their candidates (Form EC9) by the deadline of 6.00 pm on Monday, 11th August 2025, and 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 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.

“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. The FCT Area Council election will hold on Saturday, 21st February 2026.” (The Nation)