INEC CHAIR MAHMOOD YAKUBU SHUTS DOWN REMOVAL RUMOURS AFTER COMMISSIONERS’ SWEARING-IN
Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has debunked widespread rumours suggesting his removal from office by President Tinubu, declaring that he remains the nation’s electoral chief in full constitutional authority. The rebuttal followed the swearing-in of two newly appointed national commissioners — Mallam Tukur Abdulrazaq Yusuf (North-West) and Professor Sunday Nwambam Aja (South-East) — by the President at the State House.
Speaking to reporters shortly after the event, Yakubu noted that all appointments were part of a routine strengthening of the Commission’s structure and do not imply a leadership shake-up. “There is only one INEC Chairman,” he emphasized, reaffirming that his position remains protected under the 1999 Constitution and that his term remains valid. The new commissioners bring INEC closer to its full capacity of 12 members, essential as the electoral body begins preparation for off-cycle elections and early 2027 presidential polls.
Observers have raised concerns that the appointment of new INEC commissioners under the current administration might tilt the electoral process in favor of the ruling party. However, Yakubu reiterated INEC’s neutrality, saying the Commission will uphold its mandate to conduct credible, inclusive, and transparent elections across Nigeria.
