INEC Denounces Fake Governorship Candidate List for Six States

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) issued a warning on October 12, 2026, regarding a fraudulent online publication claiming to be a special announcement about governorship candidates in Zamfara, Gombe, Delta, Plateau, Yobe, and Kano. The commission categorically denied originating the document and urged the public to stop sharing the fake information.

INEC advised Nigerians to verify all election-related data exclusively through its official website, news portal, and verified social media accounts. The commission clarified that any information suggesting a special announcement regarding candidates in those six states is false.

This warning follows the release of the official final candidate lists for the governorship elections scheduled for February 6, 2027. The official lists have sparked controversy due to the omission of several expected candidates, including Peoples Democratic Party candidates Ladi Adebutu in Ogun State and Isa Pantami in Gombe State. INEC has provided no explanation for these omissions.