According to a report by Punch on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, May Agbamuche-Mbu, a National Commissioner at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has officially assumed the role of Acting Chairman of the Commission following the commencement of terminal leave by Professor Mahmood Yakubu.
The transition was formally announced on Tuesday during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the INEC headquarters in Abuja, where Resident Electoral Commissioners gathered to witness the leadership change. The handover marks the end of Yakubu’s tenure, who served as INEC Chairman for two consecutive terms beginning in 2015 and was reappointed in 2020.
The outgoing Chairman personally handed over to Agbamuche-Mbu, signalling a smooth transition within the electoral body. INEC also released an image of the occasion, showing Professor Yakubu handing over official documents to Agbamuche-Mbu, now acting as the head of the Commission.
Although full details of the handover have not been made public, the Commission confirmed that Agbamuche-Mbu will oversee the Commission’s affairs until a substantive appointment is made. She brings with her years of experience in electoral management and legal affairs, having served as a National Commissioner representing the South-South region.
The change in leadership comes at a crucial moment, as INEC prepares for future electoral activities and continues to manage ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s voting process. The handover, which was described as routine, ensures continuity in the Commission’s operations.
“This followed the formal handover of duties by Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who is proceeding on a terminal leave,” INEC announced during the meeting.
The Commission is expected to provide further details in the coming days regarding Agbamuche-Mbu’s plans in her acting capacity.
