By Zainab Bakare
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has opened its online accreditation portal for media organisations ahead of the June 20, 2026 bye-elections, urging journalists and media houses to complete registration within the stipulated timeframe.
In a notice released on its official X handle, the commission stressed that only duly accredited media organisations would be allowed to cover the elections, warning that late applications would not be considered under any circumstances. INEC described the accreditation exercise as essential to ensuring transparent, credible and well-coordinated media coverage of the electoral process.
The upcoming bye-elections, which are expected to draw significant political attention across the country, will be conducted in several constituencies and senatorial districts, including Dawaki Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency in Kano State and Zuru State Constituency in Kebbi State.
Others include the Ondo South Senatorial District in Ondo State, Rivers South East Senatorial District in Rivers State, Nasarawa North Senatorial District in Nasarawa State, and Enugu North Senatorial District in Enugu State.
The commission reiterated that all media accreditation must be completed through its designated online portal, adding that strict compliance with deadlines remains non-negotiable. The bye-elections themselves are listed as a key electoral exercise under the upcoming 2026 electoral calendar by the commission. Nigeria 2026 Bye-Elections
