Plans are in motion to replace Professor Mahmood Yakubu as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, as political maneuvering intensifies behind the scenes.
Yakubu, who has served two terms, is set to complete his tenure in November. While President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has yet to take a direct role in the selection process, sources reveal that influential figures within and outside the Aso Rock Presidential Villa have begun strategizing to determine his successor.
Political Interests at Play in INEC Leadership Selection
Leading the efforts is a former South-South governor, a key player from the 1999 political class, who is reportedly working to install a loyal and easily controlled candidate. This has sparked concerns over the credibility of future elections, as Nigeria’s electoral system faces mounting criticism following the 2023 general polls and subsequent off-season elections.
Public trust in INEC has waned in recent years, making the appointment of a new chairman a critical step in restoring confidence in the democratic process. Insider sources indicate that several candidates are under consideration, though no official names have been released. However, many of those being discussed are former National Commissioners and Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) with questionable track records, raising fears that political influence, rather than competence, may determine the next chairman.
Echoes of 2015: Concerns Over Political Interference
The current succession discussions have drawn comparisons to the controversy surrounding former President Muhammadu Buhari’s appointment of Amina Bala Zakari as acting INEC chairman in 2015. Zakari, a relative of Buhari, was installed despite an existing handover arrangement by the outgoing chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega. Following public outcry, Buhari later reversed the decision, appointing Professor Mahmood Yakubu in October 2015. Yakubu’s tenure has since been marred by allegations of election irregularities, particularly in 2019 and 2023.
With Tinubu now at the center of the process, sources within the presidency suggest he is aware of the weight of this decision. A senior official at Aso Rock stated, “The President wants a credible process. Just as he proposed using NYSC members to support the coming census for transparency, he is keen on ensuring that Nigerians retain confidence in INEC.”
As the countdown to Yakubu’s exit begins, the nation watches closely to see whether the next INEC chairman will inspire trust in the electoral system, or deepen concerns over political interference.
