Tinubu breaks silence on Yakubu’s exit as INEC Chairman

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally accepted the departure of Professor Mahmood Yakubu as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), marking the end of his decade-long leadership of the electoral body.

Yakubu, first appointed in November 2015 as the 14th chairman of the commission, served two consecutive five-year terms after his reappointment in 2020.

His tenure officially expired this month.

In a statement issued on Monday, President Tinubu expressed appreciation for Yakubu’s “unwavering dedication and commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy,” acknowledging his role in organising credible elections and implementing key electoral reforms.

As a mark of national recognition, the President conferred on Yakubu the honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) for his meritorious service to the country.

President Tinubu also directed that the most senior national commissioner, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, should assume office as Acting Chairman of INEC pending the appointment of a substantive successor.

In his valedictory letter dated October 3, 2025, Professor Yakubu expressed gratitude to the President for the trust and opportunity to serve, noting that his tenure was marked by significant progress in Nigeria’s electoral process.