From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday officially accepted the departure of Mahmood Yakubu as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) following the conclusion of his second term.
According to a statement by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, to honour his service, the President conferred on Yakubu the prestigious national award of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), recognising his dedication and integrity.
Yakubu, who first assumed the role in November 2015 and had his tenure renewed in 2020, stepped down as his appointment expired.
In a statement, President Tinubu expressed gratitude for Yakubu’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s democratic process, highlighting his stewardship in conducting free and fair elections over the past decade.
President Tinubu said, “Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s committed service has strengthened our electoral system and deepened the roots of democracy in Nigeria. For this, the nation owes him a debt of gratitude.”
The President had also instructed that Yakubu hand over the commission’s leadership to the senior national commissioner, May Agbamuche-Mbu, who will oversee INEC’s affairs until a new chairman is appointed.
In his farewell letter dated October 3, Professor Yakubu reflected on his tenure, stating, “I am deeply humbled to have served my country and grateful to President Tinubu for entrusting me with this crucial responsibility.”
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