Emmanuel Femi Adedayo 
Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has signaled the end of his tenure, formally bidding farewell during a regional election conference in Banjul, Gambia.
Speaking at the extraordinary general assembly of the ECOWAS Network of Electoral Commissions (ECONEC), Yakubu announced that it would be his final appearance as INEC Chairman, with his tenure set to conclude in November 2025.
According to Western Post, Yakubu used the occasion to urge greater cooperation among electoral commissions across West Africa and expressed hope for a return to democratic rule in countries currently under military regimes in the region.
His remarks come amid swirling rumors of a possible removal by President Bola Tinubu. The speculation intensified after Yakubu was absent during a high-profile visit by opposition leaders to INEC’s headquarters. However, his Chief Press Secretary, Rotimi Oyekanmi, dismissed the claims, explaining that Yakubu was on official assignment abroad, with National Commissioner Sam Olumekun serving in his stead.
As the end of Yakubu’s tenure draws near, conversations around his potential successor are gaining momentum. While some voices advocate for appointing the next INEC Chairman from outside the Southwest region—citing the historical fact that no Yoruba individual has ever held the position—others argue that regional or ethnic background should not outweigh the need for credibility and competence.
The debate underscores the significance of the role, with many insisting that the new appointee must possess integrity, impartiality, and a strong track record in public service to steer Nigeria’s electoral process forward.
Yakubu, who has led INEC since 2015, will officially step down in November 2025.
Ademola Busayo 
Ayo Marvel 