BREAKING: INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu Resigns After 10 Years, Hands Over to May Agbamuche-Mbu as Acting Chair

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In a major development for Nigeria’s electoral system, Professor Mahmood Yakubu has officially resigned as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) after a decade of service that reshaped the nation’s voting process.

Yakubu, who assumed office in November 2015, announced his resignation on October 7, 2025, marking the end of a tenure defined by significant electoral reforms — including the introduction of biometric voter accreditation (BVAS) and electronic transmission of results.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu accepted Yakubu’s resignation and conferred on him the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) for his “outstanding contributions to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic process despite daunting security and legal challenges.”

In his stead, May Agbamuche-Mbu, a long-serving National Commissioner, has been appointed Acting INEC Chairman. Agbamuche-Mbu, known for her extensive experience in supervising elections in states such as Edo, Rivers, and Delta, will oversee ongoing reforms and preparations for future polls.

INEC confirmed the handover in an official statement, noting that Yakubu had proceeded on terminal leave ahead of the end of his statutory tenure.

Professor Yakubu’s decade-long leadership witnessed both innovation and controversy — from the rollout of voter technology to heated political debates surrounding election integrity. His departure now opens a new chapter in the leadership of Nigeria’s electoral umpire as the country looks toward future elections under Agbamuche-Mbu’s stewardship.