ABUJA – October 7, 2025: The outgoing Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, has said his decision to step down was to pave the way for the appointment of a new chairman to continue the commission’s work.
Yakubu, who officially handed over to National Commissioner, Ms. May Agbamuche-Mbu, as Acting Chairman, announced his exit during INEC’s regular consultative meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) in Abuja.
He said his decision was guided by Section 36, Subsections 1 and 2 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), adding that the early handover would enable his successor to settle down quickly for the task of conducting elections and other electoral activities.
“In the interim, I am handing over to one of the most senior national commissioners by date of appointment. Following consultation with other national commissioners, Ms. May Agbamuche-Mbu will serve in acting capacity pending the appointment of a substantive chairman,” he said.
Yakubu, who served as INEC chairman for 10 years, expressed appreciation to national commissioners, RECs, and staff for their support, noting that together they managed the commission’s enormous responsibilities.
He also acknowledged the cooperation of the National Assembly, political parties, the National Peace Committee, civil society, the media, labour unions, security agencies, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), and other stakeholders.
“Above all, I thank Nigerians for their comments and criticisms which encouraged us to persevere,” he added.
Yakubu highlighted the achievements of the commission under his leadership, including the consolidation of the biometric register of voters, the digitalization of many INEC processes, and the introduction of several technological innovations to enhance election management.
He said the commission was already preparing for the Anambra governorship election in November, the FCT Area Council election, and the Ekiti and Osun governorship elections in 2026, as well as the 2027 general elections.
According to him, INEC is also awaiting the passage of a new Electoral Act, which would require a review of its regulations, guidelines, and election manuals.
In her remarks, the acting INEC chairman, Agbamuche-Mbu, commended Yakubu for his contributions to the development of Nigeria’s electoral process, describing his tenure as remarkable.
“We acknowledge your significant achievements, your hard work, and dedication to national service. We wish you God’s guidance in your future endeavours,” she said.
Agbamuche-Mbu pledged to uphold the integrity of the commission and work with professionalism and unity to sustain the standards set by Yakubu.
Highlights of the event included the presentation of two books authored under Yakubu’s watch — “Election Management in Nigeria 2015–2025” and “Electoral Technology 2015–2025.”
Yakubu later signed and presented his official handover notes to Agbamuche-Mbu.
