A Surprise Early Exit
Professor Mahmood Yakubu has formally ended his decade-long tenure as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
His official departure took effect on October 7, 2025.
While his term was originally slated to expire in November, Yakubu said his decision allows for a smoother transition as INEC prepares for the 2027 electoral calendar.
In his final address to Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs), Yakubu reflected on his tenure, highlighting the commission’s push toward digitalization — including biometric accreditation, electronic result transmission, and more efficient candidate nomination systems.
New Leadership in Acting Capacity
Following constitutional protocols, May Agbamuche-Mbu, the most senior National Commissioner (by appointment date), has been named Acting Chairman of INEC.
She currently heads INEC’s Legal Services, Clearance, and Complaints Committee (LSCCC), giving her direct oversight of candidate vetting and electoral legal matters.
Agbamuche-Mbu will hold office until President Bola Tinubu appoints a substantive successor, in consultation with the Senate and the Council of State.
Legacy, Critique & Stakes Ahead
Yakubu’s decade saw bold electoral reforms but also sharp critiques.
While he is credited with modernizing INEC’s operations, logistical failures, court challenges, and delays in polling sometimes stalled progress.
Political observers note that the timing of Yakubu’s exit and the selection of Agbamuche-Mbu signal the high importance being placed on stability, continuity, and public confidence ahead of the next elections.
President Tinubu has already accepted the resignation and is expected to announce a nominee for substantive INEC chair “within the week,” sources say.