Professor Mahmood Yakubu has concluded his tenure as INEC Chairman after two terms, with May Agbamuche-Mbu assuming the role of Acting Chair to oversee the Commission’s operations

Professor Mahmood Yakubu has officially concluded his tenure as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), marking the end of his second and final five-year term, which is set to expire in November 2025.

Following his exit, Mrs May Agbamuche-Mbu, a veteran legal practitioner and INEC National Commissioner, has assumed the position of Acting Chairman. She also serves as the Chairperson of INEC’s Legal Services, Clearance & Complaints Committee (LSCCC) and will oversee the Commission’s operations until a substantive chairman is appointed.

Yakubu announced his decision during a meeting with the Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) on Tuesday, formally bringing an end to a decade-long leadership period that spanned two terms.

Transition and Leadership Continuity

Mrs Agbamuche-Mbu’s appointment as Acting Chairman ensures continuity in INEC’s leadership as the Commission prepares for upcoming off-cycle elections and ongoing electoral reforms.

Her extensive experience in legal practice and electoral administration is expected to guide the Commission through the transition period.

Yakubu’s Legacy and Achievements

Professor Yakubu first assumed office in November 2015, succeeding Professor Attahiru Jega. After completing his first term in November 2020, he briefly stepped down before being renominated by the President and confirmed by the Senate for a second term.

In his farewell address, Yakubu expressed gratitude to INEC staff and Resident Electoral Commissioners for their dedication, commitment, and professionalism throughout his tenure.

He described his time at the Commission as a period of significant challenges and accomplishments, noting that the Commission had navigated complex political, logistical, and technological hurdles to improve the credibility of Nigeria’s elections.

Institutional Reforms and Electoral Innovations

Under Yakubu’s leadership, INEC introduced several technological innovations aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency in the electoral process. These include the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV), and the continuous voter registration (CVR) initiative.

The Commission also expanded voter education, strengthened stakeholder engagement, and implemented reforms to improve the integrity of election logistics and results management.

Despite facing criticism and operational challenges, Yakubu’s tenure is widely regarded as one of institutional consolidation, with INEC emerging as a more digitally driven and transparent electoral body.

Looking Ahead

As Acting Chairman, May Agbamuche-Mbu is expected to maintain the Commission’s reform trajectory while ensuring stability ahead of future elections.

Her immediate priorities include overseeing ongoing electoral reviews, strengthening internal processes, and preparing for the 2027 general elections.

The Presidency is expected to announce a substantive appointment in the coming months, subject to Senate confirmation.