(DDM) – A major transition has taken place at Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) following the official handover of leadership to May Agbamuche-Mbu, who now serves as Acting Chairman of the nation’s electoral body.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who has presided over INEC since 2015, formally handed over the reins on Tuesday as he proceeds on terminal leave, signaling the beginning of a new leadership phase within the commission.
The announcement was made during a stakeholders’ meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) held at INEC headquarters in Abuja, where Agbamuche-Mbu, previously a National Commissioner representing the South-South, was introduced as the Acting Chairman.
Sources at the meeting told DDM that the transition is in line with civil service and institutional protocol, allowing the outgoing chairman to complete his leave period before officially exiting the commission.
Mahmood Yakubu, whose tenure was marked by landmark electoral reforms, including the introduction of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and electronic transmission of results, is credited with transforming Nigeria’s electoral processes through digital innovation and improved transparency.
However, his leadership was also not without controversy. Critics had faulted aspects of INEC’s performance during the 2023 general elections, citing logistical lapses, delayed result transmission, and credibility concerns.
Despite these challenges, Yakubu remained steadfast in defending the commission’s integrity, insisting that electoral progress had been achieved despite systemic constraints.
May Agbamuche-Mbu’s appointment comes at a critical time as INEC prepares for several off-cycle governorship elections, including those in Anambra, Edo, and Ondo States.
Her role will involve ensuring institutional continuity, maintaining staff morale, and strengthening public trust in the commission’s capacity to deliver credible elections.
Agbamuche-Mbu, a legal practitioner and former editor of The Guardian on Sunday, has been part of the commission’s decision-making body since 2017. She has played key roles in electoral monitoring, policy formulation, and legal compliance.
A senior official at INEC told DDM that her experience within the commission would ensure a smooth leadership transition, describing her as “a stabilizing force who understands both the operational and legal frameworks of Nigeria’s electoral system.”
Political analysts believe that her elevation will allow INEC to maintain operational stability as Nigeria inches closer to another major election cycle.
They also note that her tenure, though acting, may provide a glimpse into future leadership possibilities at the commission, especially as discussions begin around post-Yakubu reforms.
For now, stakeholders await her first official policy direction as Acting Chairman. Insiders suggest that Agbamuche-Mbu will prioritize reviewing the 2023 election performance, enhancing technological infrastructure, and deepening collaboration with security agencies ahead of forthcoming elections.
As she takes over the helm, the political class, civil society, and international observers are watching closely to see whether the leadership transition will restore public confidence and strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions in the months ahead.
Further details are expected as Agbamuche-Mbu formally assumes office and begins consultations with senior INEC officials and external partners on the next phase of Nigeria’s electoral reform journey.