KEY POINTS

• Mahmood Yakubu resignation ends a decade of INEC reforms.
• May Agbamuche-Mbu takes over in acting capacity.
• Yakubu’s tenure modernised Nigeria’s election process.

After a decade of steering Nigeria’s electoral system through sweeping reforms, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has resigned.

Yakubu, who took office in 2015, announced his decision on Tuesday during INEC’s quarterly meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners in Abuja, describing the gathering as his “last as chairman.”

Mahmood Yakubu resignation signals transition at INEC

Citing Section 306 of the 1999 Constitution, Yakubu said his resignation would ensure a smooth transition as INEC prepares for a packed electoral calendar.

By consensus of the National Commissioners, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, the most senior official, will serve as acting chairman until a substantive successor is appointed.

Yakubu’s ten years of digital change at INEC

Yakubu talked about his time at INEC in his parting speech, focusing on how the organization has changed with the times, from biometric voter registration and online party nominations to sending results electronically.

“Together, we built a foundation for credible elections in Africa’s largest democracy,” he said, thanking political parties, security agencies, civil society, and the National Youth Service Corps for their support.

He also unveiled two publications chronicling INEC’s reforms: Election Management in Nigeria 2015–2025 and Innovations in Electoral Technology 2015–2025, both now available on the commission’s website.

Mahmood Yakubu resignation comes ahead of key polls

Yakubu’s exit comes as INEC braces for several major elections including next month’s Anambra governorship poll, the FCT Area Council elections in February 2026, and governorship contests in Ekiti and Osun later next year.

He disclosed that preparations for the 2027 general elections have already begun.

The outgoing chairman ended the meeting on a light note, inviting commissioners for a farewell photograph before formally handing over to Agbamuche-Mbu.

Finally, his departure marks the close of what many describe as a transformative era in Nigeria’s electoral history.