The Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC) adjusts its pre-election timetable for the 2026 local government elections while retaining September 9, 2026, as the official date for the polls across the state.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the Commission’s Chairman, Hon. Plangji Daniel Cishak, announces the changes after a review of legal, administrative, and operational factors. He says the adjustment is aimed at strengthening the electoral process and ensuring transparency, credibility, and compliance with electoral laws.
One of the key changes is the rescheduling of political party primaries. PLASIEC now fixes party primaries for March 7 to March 12, 2026, instead of January. The Commission explains that the shift gives political parties and aspirants more time for consultations, consensus-building, and internal reconciliation.
Mediaplusng.com reports that other pre-election activities are also adjusted to align with the new timeline. Candidate nomination, screening, and the publication of final lists are now scheduled for late March, a move observers say may help resolve eligibility issues early and reduce election-related disputes.
PLASIEC also confirms that official campaign activities will begin on April 11, 2026, and end 48 hours before election day, in line with electoral guidelines. The Commission notes that this period allows parties to engage voters while maintaining order and fairness in the process.
Despite the timetable changes, major election milestones remain unchanged. These include the publication of the voters’ register, submission of polling agents’ lists, and the election date itself. PLASIEC says keeping these key dates intact provides certainty for political parties, security agencies, and election observers.
Local government elections in Plateau State often attract strong political interest, as they are seen as a test of party strength ahead of future state and national contests. Stakeholders believe the revised timetable could improve preparation and reduce tension as the election approaches.
PLASIEC reassures residents that it remains committed to conducting free, fair, and credible elections in line with the PLASIEC Law and established electoral standards. The Commission urges political parties, aspirants, and voters to strictly follow the revised timetable.
As preparations continue, PLASIEC calls for peaceful participation and cooperation from all stakeholders to ensure a smooth and successful local government election in September 2026.
