INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu has denied rumors circulating on social media that he was dismissed by President Bola Tinubu. A viral WhatsApp message falsely claimed Yakubu's replacement by Professor Olamilekan. INEC clarified that Yakubu, concluding his second term, remains in office and the appointment process for his successor continues.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has moved swiftly to debunk rumors circulating on social media claiming that its Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has been dismissed by President Bola Tinubu. The baseless reports, initially shared through a viral WhatsApp message, falsely stated that Yakubu was replaced by Professor Olamilekan Bashiru.
Responding to an inquiry from Vanguard News, Rotimi Oyekanmi, the Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, firmly refuted the claims, stating, "Please disregard. It is not true." The rumors had raised eyebrows, as they implied that a significant leadership change had already taken place at the commission. However, the statement from Oyekanmi clarified that Yakubu, who is nearing the completion of his second term as INEC Chairman, remains in office for the time being.
Yakubu’s tenure is set to end later this year, as the position of INEC Chairman is subject to a thorough nomination process. According to the constitution, President Tinubu will nominate a candidate, who will then undergo profiling by the Department of State Services (DSS). Following the screening, the President will present the nominee to the National Council of State for review before forwarding the name to the Senate for final confirmation.
This false rumor about Yakubu’s dismissal comes amid other ongoing political discussions, including protests over recent electoral decisions in various parts of Nigeria. However, for now, INEC’s leadership remains unchanged.
