The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Rivers State says it has intensified preparations for the Rivers South-East Senatorial District bye-election scheduled for Saturday, June 20, 2026.
Addressing journalists during a press briefing in Port Harcourt, the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Johnson Alalibo-Sinikem, said the election is being conducted to fill the vacant senatorial seat following the death of former lawmaker Barinada Mpigi, who represented the district.
Alalibo-Sinikem explained that the bye-election will be conducted across 88 wards and 1,629 polling units in seven local government areas, namely Andoni, Eleme, Gokana, Khana, Opobo/Nkoro, Oyigbo and Tai.
According to him, INEC has already published the official Notice of Election in line with Section 28(3) of the Electoral Act 2026, while political party primaries currently being monitored by the commission are expected to conclude today, May 26.
He disclosed that political parties are expected to begin submission of nomination forms through the INEC nomination portal from May 29, describing the process as mandatory for all parties intending to field candidates.
On logistics, the Resident Electoral Commissioner said the commission has commenced discussions with transport unions and boat operators to ensure smooth movement of personnel and election materials on election day. He added that BVAS machines and power banks for voter accreditation and result transmission are being prepared, while printing of voters’ registers will begin shortly.
Alalibo-Sinikem further revealed that over 6,700 ad hoc staff, drawn from INEC, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), and other federal agencies, will participate in the exercise, with training expected to begin in June.
He reassured residents of Rivers State of the commission’s commitment to delivering a free, fair, peaceful and credible bye-election, while calling on political parties, youths, security agencies, the media and the electorate to support the process.
