JUST IN: Agbamuche-Mbu Replaces Mahmood Yakubu as Acting INEC Chair

After serving for a decade as the head of Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu has formally resigned from his position.

The announcement came on Tuesday during the commission’s quarterly meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) in Abuja, which Yakubu described as his “last as chairman.”

He explained that his decision to step aside was guided by Section 306 of the 1999 Constitution, noting that it would pave the way for a smooth leadership transition as the Commission gears up for a demanding election cycle.

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Following a consensus among the National Commissioners, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, the most senior member of the Commission, has been appointed to serve as Acting INEC Chairman until a substantive successor is named.

In his farewell address, Yakubu reflected on his ten-year tenure, emphasizing the Commission’s major reforms and technological breakthroughs during his leadership.

“Together, we built a foundation for credible elections in Africa’s largest democracy,” he said.

He highlighted key milestones such as biometric voter registration, electronic transmission of results, and online systems for party nomination and election monitoring innovations that have reshaped Nigeria’s electoral process.

Yakubu expressed appreciation to stakeholders who supported the Commission’s mission, including political parties, civil society groups, security agencies, the National Peace Committee, and the media.

He particularly commended members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), describing them as “the most patriotic election officials.”

The outgoing INEC boss also unveiled two new publications summarizing his years in office “Election Management in Nigeria 2015–2025” and “Innovations in Electoral Technology 2015–2025.” Both books, he said, are now accessible on INEC’s official website.

Looking ahead, Yakubu disclosed that preparations for the 2027 general elections were already underway, with several key polls including the Anambra governorship election next month, FCT Area Council polls in February 2026, and the Ekiti and Osun elections later that year already on the Commission’s calendar.

He wrapped up his final meeting on a lighter note, inviting his colleagues for a farewell group photograph before formally handing over to Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu.