(DDM) – Former presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Dumebi Kachikwu, has accused outgoing INEC chairman Mahmood Yakubu of using his exit days to spite President Bola Tinubu.
DDM gathered that Kachikwu made the remarks during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, where he alleged that Yakubu’s final actions in office were designed to send a political warning to the presidency.
According to him, the recognition of the ADC faction led by David Mark, despite ongoing legal disputes, was a reckless move that reflected deliberate defiance.
Kachikwu argued that Yakubu’s decision to endorse one side of a party crisis still in court amounted to contempt for due process.
He described Yakubu as one of the most “unfortunate appointments” in Nigeria’s political history, stressing that his tenure would be remembered as a monumental failure.
The ADC chieftain insisted that the outgoing INEC boss used his last moments in power to provoke controversy rather than promote stability.
Kachikwu said Nigerians should not forget that Yakubu presided over elections marred by irregularities, delays, and widespread mistrust.
He claimed that instead of leaving office quietly, the chairman attempted to leave behind a trail of confusion.
According to him, the recognition of David Mark’s faction had less to do with legal clarity and more to do with politics at the highest level.
Kachikwu suggested that Yakubu deliberately used the move to embarrass President Tinubu and undermine his political authority.
He warned that such actions deepen public cynicism about Nigeria’s electoral process and the impartiality of its institutions.
Kachikwu stressed that his faith remained in the judiciary to resolve the ADC leadership dispute fairly.
He assured party members and Nigerians that the courts would deliver justice and reverse what he described as Yakubu’s recklessness.
The former ADC candidate added that Nigerians must learn from Yakubu’s tenure, which he believes symbolised poor leadership and weak accountability.
Political observers say Kachikwu’s remarks reflect a wider frustration among opposition politicians about INEC’s handling of party disputes.
They note that the commission has often been accused of favouring certain factions, thereby tilting internal power struggles in ways that alter national politics.
Critics argue that Yakubu’s legacy is already tainted by the 2023 elections, which were heavily criticised for logistical failures and controversial results.
Supporters of the outgoing INEC boss, however, claim he managed one of Nigeria’s most complex elections under challenging conditions.
But for Kachikwu and many others, Yakubu’s name will be remembered less for resilience and more for failure.
He concluded his interview by calling for reforms in INEC’s structure to ensure that no future chairman can wield such unchecked influence.