Poll will fill vacancy left by Hon. Yaya Bauchi Tongo across 903 polling units in three LGAs
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled Saturday, September 19, 2026, for the conduct of the Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye Federal Constituency bye-election, following the death of the constituency’s representative in the House of Representatives, Hon. Yaya Bauchi Tongo.
In a press statement signed by Public Affairs Officer Mohorret Bigun on behalf of the Resident Electoral Commissioner, INEC confirmed that the election will be held in accordance with Section 76(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the Electoral Act.
Key Dates for the By-Election
The official schedule of activities has been released:
· Notice of Election: Thursday, August 20, 2026
· Party Primaries: August 21 – August 25, 2026
· Final List of Candidates: September 8, 2026
· Campaign Period: September 9 – September 17, 2026
· Election Day: Saturday, September 19, 2026
INEC Pledges Free, Fair Poll
INEC urged all participating political parties to strictly adhere to the established timetable and ensure their activities remain within the confines of the law.
The electoral body reaffirmed its commitment to providing a level playing field and delivering a free, fair, and inclusive election across the constituency, which spans:
· 903 Polling Units
· 31 Registration Areas
· 3 Local Government Areas (Gombe, Kwami, and Funakaye)
Stakeholders have been reassured of INEC’s readiness to conduct the bye-election transparently, as the Commission works to fill the vacant seat left by the late lawmaker.
