Professor Mahmood Yakubu, the Chairman of Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has formally indicated that his time at the helm of the electoral body is drawing to a close.
Speaking at a regional electoral conference in Banjul, Gambia, he confirmed that his current appearance at the ECOWAS Network of Electoral Commissions (ECONEC) meeting would be his last in his official capacity.
According to Western Post, Yakubu addressed fellow electoral officials during the extraordinary general assembly, stating that his tenure would end later this year. He used the occasion to advocate for deeper cooperation among electoral commissions across West Africa, particularly in the face of recent democratic setbacks. He expressed optimism that democracy would eventually return to countries in the region currently under military rule.
Speculations and Clarifications
Yakubu’s remarks come amid growing public discourse and speculation surrounding his continued stay in office. His recent absence during a high-profile visit to INEC headquarters by leaders of opposition parties fueled rumors that President Bola Tinubu might have already initiated steps to replace him. However, his Chief Press Secretary, Rotimi Oyekanmi, swiftly dispelled the rumors, explaining that Yakubu was away on official duty abroad. In his absence, National Commissioner Sam Olumekun was designated to act on his behalf.
Debate Over Yakubu’s Successor
With Professor Yakubu’s exit now in sight, conversations have intensified around the process and politics of appointing the next INEC Chairman. While some political stakeholders argue that the position should be zoned to a region outside the Southwest for the sake of balance, others insist that merit, integrity, and capability must remain the foremost criteria.
A notable point raised in these discussions is that, since the establishment of the electoral body in 1960, no individual of Yoruba descent has held the position of INEC Chairman. Those advocating for a Yoruba candidate cite this historical exclusion as a justification for regional fairness. Still, critics of this viewpoint caution against politicizing the appointment, warning that the credibility of future elections hinges on the impartiality and competence of whoever emerges as the new electoral chief.
A Defining Moment Ahead
Professor Yakubu’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter in Nigeria’s electoral history. His leadership spanned multiple election cycles, including some of the most technologically innovative and contentious polls in the country’s recent memory.
As Nigeria gears up for a transition in electoral leadership, all eyes are now on the presidency and the National Assembly, who will play pivotal roles in shaping the next phase of INEC’s leadership and the broader future of democratic governance in the country.
