Presidency Denies INEC Chairman’s Removal Amidst Rumors​

Presidency Slams ‘Fake News’ on INEC Chairman’s Alleged Sack​

The Presidency has firmly dismissed circulating rumors suggesting that Professor Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has been removed from his position. O’tega Ogra, Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Digital Media, addressed these claims on Monday, labeling them as unfounded. ​

Ogra stated, “The Nigerian public should disregard any fake news making the rounds about the replacement of the INEC Chairman. Any such announcement will come from the SGF’s office or any other appropriate official source.” ​

Professor Yakubu was appointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari on October 21, 2015, succeeding Amina Zakari, who served as acting chairperson. He has since overseen the 2019 and 2023 general elections in Nigeria. ​

The INEC Chairman plays a pivotal role in Nigeria’s democratic process by overseeing national elections. Unverified reports about his removal could potentially trigger political instability, undermine confidence in the electoral system, and fuel misinformation. With political parties preparing for an off-cycle gubernatorial election in Anambra State later this year, such rumors have garnered significant attention.​

The Presidency’s prompt clarification aims to quell any tension or speculation arising from these online claims and reaffirms the importance of relying on official government communication channels for verified information.​

Over the weekend, social media platforms were flooded with unverified claims that President Tinubu had sacked Professor Yakubu from his position as INEC Chairman. These reports, lacking credible sources or official confirmation, quickly gained traction and stirred political debate. Professor Yakubu, reappointed in 2020, has faced scrutiny following the 2023 general elections, with critics citing alleged irregularities and performance issues.​

The Presidency’s stance aligns with the government’s protocol on disseminating official decisions, typically communicated through formal channels such as the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) or presidential spokespersons. As of this report, there has been no official announcement or communication from any relevant government office regarding a change in INEC’s leadership.​

Professor Yakubu is currently serving his second five-year term as INEC Chairman. Any removal or replacement must adhere to constitutional and legal processes, requiring the President to act on an address supported by a two-thirds majority of the Senate.​