The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is undergoing a leadership change as Professor Mahmood Yakubu proceeds on his terminal leave, marking the end of his tenure after nearly a decade at the helm. He officially handed over duties to Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, a National Commissioner and one of the most senior members, who will serve as the Acting Chairman.
The transition was announced by Yakubu on Tuesday during a stakeholders’ meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners at the INEC headquarters in Abuja.
Yakubu explained that his decision to step down, with only a few weeks remaining in his second term, was in accordance with Section 306, Subsections 1 and 2 of the 1999 Constitution. He stated that the interim arrangement was made “following consultation with other national commissioners” to allow the appointing authorities—the President and the Senate—sufficient time to name and confirm a substantive chairman.
He expressed hope that the incoming chairman would be able to “quickly settle down to the task of conducting elections and electoral activities in Africa’s most demographically and logistically complex environment.”
Reflecting on his tenure, which began with his appointment by former President Muhammadu Buhari on October 21, 2015, Yakubu highlighted the significant progress made under his leadership, becoming the first INEC Chairman in Nigeria’s democratic history to be reappointed for a second five-year term (in 2020).
He proudly presented two publications documenting the Commission’s achievements: Election Management in Nigeria 2015–2025 and Innovations in Electoral Technology 2015–2025. Key innovations introduced include:
- Consolidation of the Biometric Register of Voters.
- Replacement of manual processes with digital platforms and applications.
- Technological tools for locating election facilities and managing political party finances.
- The Election Monitoring and Support Centre for real-time election tracking.
Yakubu noted that while tremendous progress has been made, “a lot more needs to be done,” citing persistent challenges like insecurity, natural disasters such as floods, and the need to update voting frameworks for internally displaced persons (IDPs).
Upcoming Elections and the Road to 2027
Before officially signing his handover notes, the outgoing chairman outlined a busy schedule for the Commission, demonstrating the scope of work Agbamuche-Mbu will oversee:
- Anambra State governorship election (next month).
- FCT Area Council election (February 2026).
- Ekiti State governorship election (June 2026).
- Osun State governorship election (August 2026).
Furthermore, Yakubu confirmed that INEC has already begun preparations for the 2027 general elections, pending the passage of a new Electoral Act. Future priorities include cleaning up the voters’ register, reviewing polling unit locations, and managing party primaries.
Gratitude to Stakeholders and Nigerians
Yakubu used his farewell address to thank his colleagues, the 24 national commissioners, 67 resident electoral commissioners, and staff nationwide. He singled out members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), calling them “among the most educated and most patriotic and also most knowledgeable election officials” he worked with.
Finally, he extended his thanks to the entire Nigerian populace, acknowledging that both their “comments as well as criticisms… encouraged rather than discouraged us to persevere.”
The handover concluded with Yakubu officially presenting the notes to Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu, praying that “God will continue to bless our country and our democracy,” and taking his exit.
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