President Bola Tinubu has directed the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, to proceed immediately on terminal leave as his tenure comes to a close.
The directive comes amid rising concerns over Yakubu’s recent actions in the final stretch of his leadership.
According to Sahara Reporters, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma briefed the president shortly after Tinubu returned from a 12-day working vacation, alleging that Yakubu’s move to register new political parties and his alleged covert support for a governorship candidate in Imo State were undermining Tinubu’s second-term preparations.
Following the meeting, Tinubu reportedly instructed Yakubu to step aside and suspend all official duties.
This sudden move has disrupted INEC’s calendar, forcing the cancellation of its final quarterly meeting with political parties and a planned session with civil society organizations.
With Yakubu’s exit, the president is expected to forward a nomination for the next INEC chairman to the National Assembly in the coming days.
Prof. Mahmood Yakubu was first appointed as INEC Chairman by former President Muhammadu Buhari on October 21, 2015, succeeding Amina Zakari, who had served in an acting capacity.
