Yakubu Hands Over to Agbamuche as Acting INEC Chairman

Professor Mahmood Yakubu has handed over leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to May Agbamuche, following the completion of his two-term, ten-year tenure as chairman.

The handover took place on Tuesday at INEC headquarters in Abuja during a meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners. Agbamuche, the oldest serving National Commissioner, will serve as acting chairman until President Bola Tinubu appoints a substantive successor.

Yakubu, first appointed in November 2015 by former President Muhammadu Buhari, made history as the first INEC chairman to serve two full terms. During his tenure, the commission conducted two general elections, 2019 and 2023, alongside several off-cycle governorship polls across the country.

His administration oversaw key electoral reforms, including the introduction of technology-driven processes aimed at improving transparency and credibility in Nigeria’s elections.

With his exit, Yakubu joins the list of former electoral chiefs who have shaped the evolution of Nigeria’s democratic process, leaving behind a decade-long legacy of mixed outcomes and ongoing debates over electoral integrity.

Search Begins for New INEC Chairman

Attention now turns to President Tinubu, who is expected to nominate Yakubu’s successor, subject to Senate confirmation. Civil society organisations and democracy advocates have already called for openness and impartiality in the selection process.

Groups such as the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) have urged the Presidency to disclose details of the appointment procedure and ensure the new leadership remains politically neutral.

There have also been renewed calls for the next INEC chairman to demonstrate integrity, competence, and courage in strengthening public confidence in the electoral system.

As Agbamuche takes charge in an acting capacity, INEC will continue preparations for upcoming elections while Nigerians await the appointment of a new chairman to lead the commission into its next phase.