The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled Saturday, September 19, 2026, for the bye-election to fill the vacant seat representing the Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives.
The seat became vacant following the death of Hon. Yaya Bauchi Tongo, who previously represented the constituency in the National Assembly.
INEC announced the date in its official timetable for the election, stating that the exercise will be conducted in accordance with Section 76(2) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, and relevant provisions of the Electoral Act.
According to the timetable, the formal Notice of Election will be published on Thursday, August 20, marking the beginning of the electoral process.
Political parties seeking to contest the seat are expected to conduct their primaries between August 21 and August 25, after which the Commission will publish the final list of nominated candidates on September 8.
Campaigns for the bye-election will officially commence on September 9 and continue until September 17, two days before voters head to the polls.
INEC has called on all participating political parties and candidates to strictly comply with the approved timetable and electoral laws throughout the process.
The Commission also reaffirmed its preparedness to conduct a credible and inclusive election, with voting expected to take place across 903 Polling Units, 31 Registration Areas and three Local Government Areas within the federal constituency.
The bye-election is expected to attract considerable political attention as parties move quickly to select candidates and mobilise supporters for the closely watched contest.
