Yakubu heads INEC weekly meeting, group condemns sacking claim
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, on Tuesday, presided over the commission’s weekly management meeting in Abuja, amid viral rumours alleging his removal from office.
The false claims, which began circulating on WhatsApp on Monday, alleged that President Bola Tinubu had sacked Yakubu and appointed Prof. Bashiru Olamilekan as his replacement.
The message, which lacked attribution or any credible source, sparked confusion across social media platforms.
Responding to the rumour, the Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, dismissed the claims as completely untrue.
“Please, disregard. It is not true,” he said.
Despite the unfounded speculation, Yakubu—who is expected to complete his second term as INEC Chairman later this year—was sighted on Tuesday overseeing the commission’s routine meeting.
The meeting, held at the INEC headquarters in Abuja, was attended by several National Commissioners, including Mr. Sam Olumekun, Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, Mr. Kenneth Ukeagu, Prof. Abdullahi Abdu Zuru, and Dr. Baba Bila, among others.
INEC, via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, confirmed the commencement of the meeting, stating that “crucial decisions” would be taken.
“The Independent National Electoral Commission’s weekly meeting began earlier today at the commission’s headquarters in Abuja, with the Hon. Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, superintending,” the post read.
Meanwhile, the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum has strongly condemned the false rumours, describing them as “fake and mischievous” and aimed at undermining democratic institutions in the country.
Speaking in Kaduna on Tuesday, AYCF President General, Alhaji Yerima Shettima, said such misinformation is dangerous and intended to sow discord within Nigeria’s political system.
“It is crucial for the public to understand that the integrity of the electoral process is paramount to our democracy,” Shettima said.
“Prof. Mahmood Yakubu has been at the forefront of promoting free and fair elections in Nigeria. Any attempt to derail that process is an affront to the democratic principles we hold dear.”
Shettima warned against divisive politics and urged Nigerians to allow the Tinubu administration to focus on national development.
“We warn those behind these malicious rumours to desist immediately. Such actions are irresponsible and harmful to the aspirations of the Nigerian people. Instead of fostering division, we urge all citizens to support the government’s focus on national growth and reform.”
He also cautioned the public to verify information before sharing it, especially on social media, and to rely solely on official announcements from credible sources.
“Any news regarding leadership changes in INEC or any other major political developments should only be trusted if announced by the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation or other official channels,” he said.
The group also called on Nigerians to remain united and resist the forces of misinformation.
“As we navigate this critical phase of our national development, let us place emphasis on unity, progress, and the rule of law,” Shettima said.
