Tinubu accepts INEC Chairman Yakubu’s exit, confers National Honour

Kunle Sanni –

President Bola Tinubu has accepted the departure of Professor Mahmood Yakubu as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) following the expiration of his second term in office.

Yakubu, who was first appointed in November 2015 as the 14th INEC Chairman, served for two consecutive five-year terms, with his reappointment in 2020 marking the beginning of his second tenure.

In a statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Monday, President Tinubu expressed appreciation for Yakubu’s service to the nation and his contributions to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy through the conduct of credible elections.

As a mark of recognition for his dedication and service, the President has conferred on Yakubu the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).

The President also directed Professor Yakubu to hand over to the most senior national commissioner, May Agbamuche-Mbu, who will oversee the affairs of the commission pending the appointment of a new chairman.

In a letter dated October 3, 2025, Professor Yakubu expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, noting that it had been an honour to contribute to the country’s democratic process since 2015.