INEC fixes Feb 21 for Rivers by-elections as Wike’s allies clinch APC tickets

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed Saturday, February 21, 2026, for the conduct of by-elections in two state constituencies in Rivers State, as allies of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, emerged winners of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries for the contests. INEC disclosed this in a Notice […]

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed Saturday, February 21, 2026, for the conduct of by-elections in two state constituencies in Rivers State, as allies of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, emerged winners of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries for the contests.

INEC disclosed this in a Notice of Election issued in line with Section 28(3) of the Electoral Act 2022.

According to the commission, the by-elections will hold in Ahoada East II and Khana II state constituencies, with polling scheduled to commence at 8:30am at designated polling units.

The commission said only voters whose names appear on the register and who possess valid Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) will be allowed to vote, stressing that voters must cast their ballots only at polling units where they are registered. It added that the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) would be deployed for accreditation, reiterating its position of “no PVC, no voting.”

Meanwhile, Napoleon Ukalikpe, a known ally of Wike, has emerged as the APC candidate for the Ahoada East II by-election following primaries conducted on Monday, January 26, 2026. He is seeking to replace Edison Ehie, now chief of staff to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, in the Rivers State House of Assembly.

Similarly, Bulabari Henrietta Loolo, widow of the late Dinebari Loolo, won the APC primary for Khana II State Constituency to replace her late husband.

While supporters of the FCT minister have celebrated the outcomes on social media, the Rivers APC chairman, Tony Okocha, has yet to comment on the primaries. Supporters of Governor Fubara have, however, alleged irregularities, questioning the conduct of the exercise and the absence of party leadership.

In response, the APC national leadership has constituted an appeal committee to receive and resolve complaints arising from the primaries, assuring aspirants of a transparent and credible process.