The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed Saturday, September 19, 2026, for the conduct of the by-election into the Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency of Gombe State.
The commission announced the date in a timetable and schedule of activities released to journalists on Tuesday, following the death of the member representing the constituency, Yaya Bauchi Tongo, who died at the age of 62 after a brief illness in Abuja on June 12, 2026.
In a statement dated August 17, 2026, and signed by Mohorret Bigun, Public Affairs Officer, on behalf of the Gombe Resident Electoral Commissioner, Alhaji Umar Mukhtar Gajiram, INEC said the by-election would be conducted in accordance with Section 76(2) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, and relevant provisions of the Electoral Act.
The commission said the Notice of Election would be published on Thursday, August 20, 2026, formally commencing the electoral timetable.
Political parties intending to participate in the election are expected to conduct their primaries between August 21 and 25, 2026.
According to the timetable, the list of nominated candidates will be published on September 8, while political campaigns will begin on September 9 and end on September 17, two days before the election.
“The list of nominated candidates will be published on 8th September 2026, while campaign will commence on 9th September 2026 and end on 17th September 2026,” the commission stated.
INEC urged all political parties to strictly adhere to the timetable and conduct their activities in accordance with the law.
The commission also assured stakeholders across the constituency’s 903 polling units, 31 registration areas and three local government areas of its commitment to providing a level playing field for all participating political parties and candidates.
“The Commission further assures all stakeholders across the 903 Polling Units, 31 Registration Areas and 3 Local Government Areas that it remains committed to providing a level playing field for all political parties and candidates and to conducting a free, fair, and inclusive bye-election,” INEC said.
The electoral body also appealed to eligible voters in the constituency to participate actively in the process and exercise their civic responsibilities peacefully and responsibly.
The Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency seat became vacant following the death of Tongo in June.
The September 19 by-election will therefore determine his successor in the House of Representatives.
