Reported by: Ijeoma G. | Edited by: Henry Owen
Abuja, Nigeria – The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has witnessed a historic leadership transition as Professor Mahmood Yakubu formally handed over duties to National Commissioner May Agbamuche-Mbu, who assumes the role of acting chairman. The handover took place during a stakeholders’ meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners at INEC headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.
Prof. Yakubu, who is proceeding on terminal leave after completing his second and final term, expressed deep appreciation to Nigerians, electoral stakeholders, and INEC staff for their support throughout his tenure. He described his time in office as one of “immense learning, service, and resilience,” acknowledging the challenges and accomplishments that have marked his leadership of the nation’s electoral body.
Appointed in 2015 and reappointed in 2020, Prof. Yakubu is the first INEC Chairman to serve two full terms. During his tenure, he oversaw the introduction of key technological innovations aimed at enhancing transparency and credibility in elections, including the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV). These initiatives have allowed for real-time voter verification and transparent tracking of election results, significantly reducing opportunities for electoral fraud and strengthening public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process.
Speaking during the handover, Prof. Yakubu noted that his administration had placed strong emphasis on voter education, stakeholder engagement, and the expansion of inclusive electoral policies. He highlighted that the Commission’s efforts to integrate technology into the voting process, as well as its initiatives to improve institutional capacity, had laid a solid foundation for credible elections.
Taking over as acting chairman, May Agbamuche-Mbu brings extensive experience from her role as a National Commissioner at INEC. She is expected to ensure continuity in the Commission’s operations while maintaining the momentum of ongoing reforms and preparing for upcoming elections. Her leadership is anticipated to reinforce INEC’s commitment to transparency, fairness, and the efficient management of electoral processes across the country.
The formal handover marks the beginning of a new chapter for INEC, ensuring stability and operational continuity as Nigeria prepares for future elections. Observers note that the seamless transition reflects the institutional maturity of the Commission and its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.
As the country looks ahead, the role of the acting chairman will be pivotal in upholding the reforms implemented under Prof. Yakubu and in continuing to strengthen public trust in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
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