PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu has officially sworn in two newly appointed commissioners of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), while the Commission’s Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, has dismissed widespread rumours about his alleged removal from office.
Speaking to journalists after today’s Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Yakubu reaffirmed his position, saying, “as far as the law is concerned, and to the best of my knowledge, I remain the INEC Chairman, the Chief Electoral Commissioner of the Federation, and the Returning Officer for the presidential election as stipulated by the Electoral Act.”
Yakubu also announced that INEC had submitted 142 reform recommendations to the National Assembly following a comprehensive review of the 2023 general elections.
Of those, eight require amendments to the Constitution or Electoral Act.
“We’ve engaged with stakeholders, and our discussions with lawmakers have been positive. We’re pleased with their commitment and the pace at which they’re working ahead of the 2027 elections,” he said.
Highlighting the ongoing collaboration, Yakubu noted a recent retreat in Lagos with the National Assembly’s joint electoral reform committee. He added that a public hearing will follow, leading to the introduction of a new electoral reform bill.
These developments underscore INEC’s continued efforts to enhance electoral transparency and integrity in Nigeria.
