Yakubu’s Nomination Won’t Affect INEC’s Independence — Northern Stakeholders

The Northern Stakeholders Consultative Initiative (NSCI) has said the nomination of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, for an ambassadorial role will not compromise the commission’s independence or impartiality.

In a statement on Tuesday, the group’s convener, Yerima Shettima, said the concerns being raised in some quarters were “misguided and unnecessary,” insisting that INEC’s autonomy is protected by law and cannot be weakened by the post-service appointment of any of its officials.

Shettima said INEC operates under a system designed to withstand political pressure, adding that its neutrality is reinforced by legal frameworks, public scrutiny and the oversight of political parties, civil society and the media.

“The idea that Professor Yakubu’s nomination can undermine INEC is unfounded,” he said. “INEC’s independence is not tied to one individual. Its processes and safeguards are too strong to be influenced by a future appointment.”

He said critics of the nomination were ignoring the fact that since the 2010 electoral reforms, the commission has been strengthened to function above partisan interest. He said innovations under Yakubu helped deepen the electoral process, noting that the 2023 elections produced major wins for opposition parties across the country.

According to him, the debate has also failed to recognise Yakubu’s long service to the country. He said the INEC chairman had served under four different presidents—Umaru Musa Yar’adua, Goodluck Jonathan, Muhammadu Buhari and Bola Ahmed Tinubu—without questions over his professionalism.

“Professor Yakubu has built a reputation for service,” Shettima said. “His work at TETFUND transformed tertiary education funding, and his reforms at INEC strengthened transparency. His ambassadorial nomination does not negate these facts.”

The group urged political actors to focus on strengthening institutions rather than creating fears around the personal career trajectory of public officials.

“Democracy is built on strong institutions, not on the personalities of those who lead them,” Shettima said.

The NSCI urged political parties, civil society and the media to avoid narratives that could erode public confidence in INEC, saying the commission remains central to Nigeria’s democratic stability.