INEC Gets New Acting Chairman as Mahmood Yakubu Bows Out

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has a new acting chairman, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, following the formal handover from Professor Mahmood Yakubu. The handover ceremony took place at the INEC headquarters in Abuja, marking a significant transition in the leadership of the electoral body.

Key Highlights:

• Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu: The new acting chairman is a seasoned lawyer and administrator with extensive experience in election management and dispute resolution. She has been a National Commissioner at INEC since 2016 and has played key roles in election monitoring, legal compliance, and stakeholder engagement initiatives.
• Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s Tenure: Yakubu served as INEC chairman from 2015 to 2025, overseeing two general elections in 2019 and 2023. During his tenure, INEC introduced several reforms, including the Bi-modal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Results Viewing Portal (iReV), to enhance transparency and credibility in the electoral process.
• Transition Significance: The handover signifies a temporary leadership shift within the commission as preparations intensify for upcoming electoral activities nationwide. Agbamuche-Mbu is expected to sustain the commission’s ongoing electoral reforms and institutional strengthening efforts.

Agbamuche-Mbu’s Background:

• Legal Expertise: A lawyer with expertise in Alternative Dispute Resolution, Agbamuche-Mbu has distinguished herself as a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK), Nigeria branch.
• Public Service: She has served on various committees, including the Ministerial Committee on the Petroleum Industry Bill and the Presidential Projects Assessment Committee (PPAC).
• INEC Tenure: As a National Commissioner, Agbamuche-Mbu has played key roles in election management, legal compliance, and stakeholder engagement initiatives.