Introduction to the Crisis
The Nigerian Presidency swiftly denied widespread rumors that President Bola Tinubu had sacked the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu. These false reports, which spread rapidly on social media, claimed Yakubu was replaced by Professor Bashiru Olamilekan. This development comes at a critical time for Nigeria’s electoral landscape.
Presidency’s Response
The Senior Special Adviser to the President on Digital and New Media, O’tega Ogra, actively addressed the situation. He urged the public to disregard the misinformation, emphasizing that any official announcements would come from authorized channels. Ogra posted this clarification on X (formerly Twitter).
The rumors spread quickly across social media platforms, claiming President Tinubu had made a significant change in INEC’s leadership. However, both the Presidency and INEC actively denied these claims. The Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, also responded by stating that the reports should be disregarded.
Context and Procedure
Professor Mahmood Yakubu is currently serving his second term as INEC Chairman. Despite facing scrutiny following the 2023 general elections, there has been no indication from the Federal Government of plans to remove him. Yakubu’s tenure is expected to conclude by the end of the year.
The process of appointing an INEC Chairman involves several steps. The President nominates a candidate and sends their particulars to the Department of State Services for screening. The National Council of State then reviews the nomination, and finally, the Senate confirms the appointment.
Impact and Conclusion
The Presidency’s denial highlights the need for Nigerians to be cautious of misinformation. In an era where social media can amplify rumors, citizens must verify information through reputable sources. The swift response from both the Presidency and INEC demonstrates a commitment to transparency.
As Nigeria moves forward, the stability and integrity of its electoral institutions remain crucial. The role of INEC, under Yakubu’s leadership, has been pivotal in shaping the country’s democratic trajectory. While debates about INEC’s performance exist, the formal process for leadership changes ensures decisions are made with due diligence.
