The outgoing Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, on Tuesday formally handed over the leadership of the Commission to National Commissioner, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu.

He said his decision to step down was to pave the way for a smooth transition and ensure continuity ahead of critical electoral preparations.

At a brief handover ceremony held during INEC’s regular consultative meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja, Yakubu said stepping aside at this time would enable his successor to settle down quickly to the demanding task of managing elections and electoral activities.

He explained that the move was in accordance with the provisions of Section 36 (1) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, and after consultations with national commissioners.

“I have taken a decision and conveyed the same as provided by Section 36, Subsections 1 and 2 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, as amended.

“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, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu will serve in acting capacity pending the appointment of a substantive chairman of the commission,” he stated.

Yakubu, who served as INEC chairman for 10 years, said his resignation would afford the appointing authorities enough time to select a new chairman while ensuring continuity in the Commission’s activities.

“I hope that this will afford the appointing authorities adequate time to appoint a new chairman. It will also enable the new chairman to quickly settle down to the task of conducting elections and electoral activities in Africa’s most demographically and logistically complex environment,” he added.

The outgoing chairman expressed appreciation to members of the Commission, RECs, and all stakeholders for their cooperation throughout his tenure.

“Together, we innovated and managed the Commission’s enormous responsibilities, sometimes on the verge of breaking down,” he said.

Yakubu acknowledged the support of the National Assembly, political parties, civil society organisations, the media, security agencies, labour unions, and Nigerians whose feedback, he noted, strengthened INEC’s resolve to improve election management.

Reflecting on his tenure, Yakubu cited key reforms such as the consolidation of the biometric voters’ register, digitisation of electoral processes, and the introduction of technologies that improved transparency and efficiency in the electoral system.

He revealed that preparations were ongoing for the Anambra governorship election in November and other polls scheduled for 2026, while early groundwork for the 2027 general elections had already commenced.

“The Electoral Bill currently before the National Assembly will introduce new reforms that will require the Commission to review its regulations, guidelines, and manuals,” he said.

Responding, the Acting INEC Chairman, Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu, commended Yakubu for his dedication, innovation, and leadership.

“We acknowledge the significant contributions and achievements made by Yakubu during his tenure. We wish you God’s guidance in your future endeavours. History will judge you kindly,” she said.

Agbamuche-Mbu pledged to sustain the integrity of the Commission and work closely with all stakeholders to consolidate INEC’s gains.

“I pledge to uphold the integrity of the Commission and work with utmost professionalism, dedication, and unity with all members of staff nationwide,” she assured.

Highlights of the event included the presentation of two books authored under Yakubu’s leadership Election Management in Nigeria 2015 – 2025 and Electoral Technology 2015 – 2025 chronicling INEC’s reforms in the last decade.

Yakubu later signed and presented his handover notes to Agbamuche-Mbu, marking the end of his decade-long stewardship at the helm of Nigeria’s electoral body.

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