President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has accepted the resignation of Professor Mahmood Yakubu as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), bringing an end to his decade-long leadership of Nigeria’s electoral body.
Yakubu formally announced his resignation during INEC’s quarterly meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) in Abuja, where he handed over to National Commissioner May Agbamuche-Mbu, the most senior commissioner, who will serve as Acting Chairman pending the appointment of a substantive successor.
In a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu commended Professor Yakubu for his “dedicated service to the nation” and his contribution to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy through credible electoral processes over the past ten years.
The President also conferred on Yakubu the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) in recognition of his service and reforms that advanced electoral transparency in the country.
In his farewell remarks, Yakubu said his decision to step down was in line with Section 306 of the 1999 Constitution, explaining that it was important to ensure a smooth transition as the commission enters a new electoral cycle.
“Together, we built a foundation for credible elections in Africa’s largest democracy,” he said, reflecting on INEC’s digital transformation under his leadership. He thanked INEC staff, political parties, civil society organisations, security agencies, the National Peace Committee, the media, and NYSC corps member whom he described as “the most patriotic election officials” for their support throughout his tenure.
He also disclosed that preparations for the 2027 general elections were already underway, with key upcoming polls including the Anambra governorship election next month and the FCT Area Council elections slated for February 2026.
As part of his parting gesture, Professor Yakubu unveiled two publications chronicling his tenure: “Election Management in Nigeria 2015–2025” and “Innovations in Electoral Technology 2015–2025,” both available on the INEC website.
Yakubu first assumed office in November 2015 as the 14th Chairman of INEC and was reappointed in 2020 for a second term. His tenure oversaw two general election cycles.
