ABUJA — Confusion and controversy trailed Nigeria’s political space on Wednesday after reports circulated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had directed Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, to proceed on immediate leave.
While some media outlets claimed the directive was issued ahead of the end of Yakubu’s tenure, no official confirmation has been provided by the Presidency or INEC. The development has ignited debate over the independence of the electoral body and the constitutional process for the tenure of its chairman.
What the Law Says
Under the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the INEC Chairman is appointed by the President pursuant to Section 154(1) but enjoys significant protection from arbitrary removal. Section 157(1) makes clear that the Chairman can only be removed from office by the President acting on an address supported by two-thirds majority of the Senate, and only for proven misconduct or incapacity.
This provision, many analysts argue, shields the electoral commission from political interference, ensuring its neutrality and stability. A “directive” to proceed on leave, if true, would therefore raise constitutional questions.
INEC’s Response
Yakubu’s Chief Press Secretary, Rotimi Oyekanmi, declined to confirm the reports, instead urging Nigerians to “check the provisions of the 1999 Constitution” before drawing conclusions. “The law is clear on how an INEC Chairman can leave office,” he said, dismissing the circulation of unverified claims as “speculative and misleading.”
Wider Political Context
The reports surface amid heightened political tensions and renewed scrutiny of Nigeria’s electoral system. The sudden postponement of INEC’s scheduled consultative meeting with political parties earlier this week has only deepened speculation.
Critics warn that if such a directive were to stand, it could set a dangerous precedent, undermining the very independence of INEC that the Constitution seeks to guarantee. Pro-democracy groups have already begun calling for clarity, with some urging the National Assembly to “safeguard the sanctity of Section 157.”
Fact Check: Where Things Stand
Multiple outlets reported Tinubu had asked Yakubu to proceed on leave.
INEC has not confirmed this; its spokesperson points instead to the Constitution.
The Presidency has issued no official statement.
By law, Yakubu cannot be removed or sidelined except through Senate-backed procedure.
At the moment, the alleged directive remains unconfirmed. Nigerians are advised to treat it as developing news until verified by either the Presidency or INEC.
Editorial Note: Headlinenews.news will continue to monitor official channels for confirmation or rebuttal of this claim. For now, the Constitution remains the final word: the INEC Chairman cannot be removed or forced out of duty without due process.
Headlinenews.news Special report.
