INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu Dismisses Sack Rumors, Focuses on Electoral Reforms Ahead of 2027

Amid growing speculations surrounding his position, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has firmly refuted claims suggesting his imminent removal from office. Speaking to journalists on Monday at the State House in Abuja, following the swearing-in ceremony of two new INEC Commissioners by President Bola Tinubu, Yakubu described the rumors as unfounded and unnecessary distractions.

He asserted his legal standing as the duly appointed chairman of the commission, reaffirming his constitutional responsibilities and electoral mandate. Yakubu emphasized that under the Nigerian Constitution and the Electoral Act, he remains the Chief Electoral Commissioner of the Federation and the returning officer for presidential elections.

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Yakubu Reaffirms Leadership Amid Speculations

“I don’t think we need to waste time so much about these unnecessary speculations,” Yakubu told the press. “As far as the law is concerned, and as far as I’m aware, I remain the chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission.”

This clear statement comes in response to unverified media reports suggesting political maneuvering to replace him ahead of the 2027 general elections. However, Yakubu’s response has calmed nerves among stakeholders who view continuity in leadership as vital to the success of ongoing electoral reforms.

The INEC boss used the opportunity to highlight the commission’s proactive stance on electoral reform, emphasizing the need to amend the Electoral Act before the next national polls. According to him, INEC has made significant progress by submitting a comprehensive list of recommendations to the National Assembly.

Electoral Reform: INEC Submits 147 Proposals to Lawmakers

Delving into the commission’s reform agenda, Yakubu revealed that INEC had submitted 147 proposals to the National Assembly aimed at improving Nigeria’s electoral framework. The proposals are the result of extensive internal reviews and engagements with stakeholders across the country.

Out of these, 142 are direct outcomes of the 2023 general elections’ review process. Notably, eight of the recommendations require constitutional or legislative amendments, which underscores the importance of collaborative work with lawmakers.

“So, we’re working with the National Assembly on electoral reform,” Yakubu noted. “Two weeks ago, we had a retreat in Lagos with the joint committee of the Senate and House of Representatives on electoral reform. So far so good, we are happy with our discussions with them, and we are also happy with the speed with which they want to proceed.”

He declined to provide further details, emphasizing that it is the prerogative of the National Assembly to deliberate and communicate the final changes to the public. Nevertheless, his optimism reflected a growing sense of urgency and commitment to fine-tuning Nigeria’s electoral laws ahead of the 2027 elections.

Commission Strengthened by Appointment of New INEC Commissioners

Another significant development addressed by Yakubu was the recent appointment and swearing-in of two national commissioners. The newly appointed officials fill longstanding vacancies representing the North-West and South-East geo-political zones. With these additions, the electoral body now has near-complete representation, enhancing its operational capacity.

Yakubu praised President Tinubu for the timely appointments, describing the action as a step that will positively impact INEC’s performance.

“We are here today, basically for the swearing in of two national commissioners. As you are aware, the commission is made up of a chairman and 12 national commissioners drawn on the basis of two commissioners per geo-political zone,” he explained.

He also paid tribute to the late Major General Modibbo Alkali (rtd), a former commissioner who passed away recently, noting that the commission is now almost fully staffed, a development that will support the implementation of reform strategies and the preparation for future elections.

 A Focus on Stability and Reform

Professor Yakubu’s assurance of his continued leadership, coupled with the momentum toward electoral reform, signals stability within INEC as the nation begins preparations for the 2027 general elections. His remarks underscore a forward-looking approach focused on legal refinement, institutional strength, and stakeholder engagement.

As political discourse heats up ahead of the next electoral cycle, Yakubu’s statements serve to reassure the public, political actors, and civil society that INEC remains committed to its constitutional duties and electoral integrity.

With support from both the executive and legislative branches, Nigeria’s electoral body appears set to take decisive steps that may reshape its democratic processes for the better.