No, INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu Was Not Sacked — Presidency Breaks Silence on Viral Rumor

By Achimi Muktar

In response to a wave of online speculation that sent shockwaves across Nigeria’s political landscape, the Presidency has officially debunked viral claims suggesting the sack of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu.

The rumour, which flooded social media platforms over the weekend, alleged that President Bola Tinubu had dismissed Yakubu from office — a move that, if true, could have sparked serious political tremors ahead of upcoming elections.

But in a swift response to douse rising tension, O’tega Ogra, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Digital Media, issued a categorical denial via his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Monday.

“The Nigerian public should disregard any fake news making the rounds about the replacement of the INEC Chairman. Any such announcement will come from the SGF’s office or any other appropriate official source,” Ogra posted.

The rebuttal comes as the nation braces for the off-cycle gubernatorial election in Anambra State, and amid mounting scrutiny over Professor Yakubu’s tenure following the controversial 2023 general elections.

Yakubu, first appointed in 2015 by former President Muhammadu Buhari and reappointed in 2020, is currently serving his second five-year term as head of the electoral body. He has overseen two general elections, and despite criticisms, remains a central figure in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

Analysts warn that unverified reports like this could seriously undermine public trust in electoral institutions, sow confusion, and incite political instability.

Political commentator Dipo Aina told our correspondent, “Removing the INEC Chairman is not something that can be done casually. There is a constitutional process. So any claim not coming from an official source should be treated with suspicion.”

Indeed, according to the Nigerian Constitution, the INEC Chairman can only be removed by the President acting on an address supported by a two-thirds majority in the Senate — a high bar that prevents arbitrary dismissals and protects the Commission’s independence.

The presidency’s prompt denial, according to political observers, serves as a crucial reminder to rely on official communication channels for verified information, especially in an era of viral misinformation and politically charged narratives.

As of the time of this report, no official statement from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) or any relevant authority has indicated a leadership change at INEC.

For now, Professor Mahmood Yakubu remains Nigeria’s electoral umpire — and any changes, if they ever occur, must follow due process, not social media gossip.