INEC Begins Online Accreditation for June 20 Bye-Elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission, popularly known as INEC, has started online accreditation for media organisations planning to cover the bye-elections scheduled for June 20, 2026.

The electoral body announced the development on Friday and asked interested media houses to complete their registration through its online platform before the deadline.

According to the commission, only organisations that finish the process within the approved period will be granted access to cover the elections. INEC also warned that applications submitted after the closing date would not be accepted.

The bye-elections are expected to take place in different parts of the country, including Dawaki Kudu/Warawa Federal Constituency in Kano State and the Zuru State Constituency in Kebbi State. Other affected areas include Ondo South Senatorial District, Rivers South East Senatorial District, Nasarawa North Senatorial District, and Enugu North Senatorial District.

INEC explained that the accreditation exercise is part of preparations aimed at ensuring proper media participation during the elections. The commission said accredited journalists and media organisations would help provide information and updates to the public throughout the voting process.

The electoral body added that the online method was introduced to make registration easier and more organised for media practitioners seeking permission to cover activities in the affected constituencies.

Political observers expect the elections to attract public attention across the states involved, especially because some of the seats became vacant after political changes and legal developments in recent months.

INEC has continued preparations for the polls while urging all interested media organisations to complete the accreditation process early to avoid missing the opportunity to participate in election coverage.