The Bauchi State Independent Electoral Commission (BASIEC) has announced that local government elections will occur on Monday, August 17, 2026.
This date marks the beginning of another democratic process aimed at electing new leaders into the third tier of government in the state.
The disclosure was contained in an official notice issued in Bauchi on Saturday, signed by the commission’s Information Officer, Mr. Ishiyaku Adamu.
The statement emphasised that the early announcement strictly adhered to the Electoral Act 2022, which requires that election timetables be made public at least 360 days before the polls.
Although Section 28 of the Act applies explicitly to elections conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), BASIEC explained that state electoral commissions are equally bound by the same provisions.
It noted that this followed the landmark Supreme Court judgment delivered on February 20, 2025, in a case concerning Rivers State, which affirmed that the statutory standard is enforceable across all federation states.
According to the notice, the move to declare the date was taken with the approval of Governor Bala Mohammed, who directed the commission to comply strictly with the law.
The governor’s decision, BASIEC stressed, demonstrates his administration’s respect for the rule of law and commitment to deepening grassroots democracy.
BASIEC, therefore, urged all political parties, aspirants, civil society organisations, and the general public to take note of the development and begin adequate preparations for the forthcoming elections.
It is assured that the commission is committed to creating a level playing field for all contestants while ensuring the process is transparent, credible, and reflective of the people’s will.
The commission further highlighted that early notification will give stakeholders ample time to engage in voter education, mobilisation, and other pre-election activities vital to achieving a successful electoral exercise 2026.
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