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By Myke Agunwa
As the tenure of the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu ends in November 2025, President Bola Tinubu has commenced an intensive search for a possible replacement.
Prof. Yakubu was first appointed as the Chairman of the Commission on October 21, 2015, by former President Muhammadu Buhari. His appointment was renewed for a second five-year term on October 27, 2020, again by the same President, making him the first INEC Chairman in Nigeria’s history to be reappointed.
A source close to the development told Pointblanknews.com that two top candidates are being considered for the position: a Professor and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).
The source, who prefers not to be named due to lack of authorization to speak on the matter said, “Two names to replace the INEC chairman have been sent to the President. They are one Professor and a Senior Advocate who is globally recognized as an expert in electoral laws. The President is keeping the two names very close to his chest.
The sources added that the “President might settle for the SAN because of his background in electoral laws and his globally recognized credentials in that area.”
It was learned that the Professor has a deep understanding of electoral systems, democratic processes, and election management, with a proven record in leadership, public administration and institutional management. He is also said to possess a strong knowledge of election technologies, especially the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BIVAS).
The Senior Advocate, on the other hand, has a robust grasp of constitutional law, electoral law, and political processes. He has been involved in election litigation at the highest levels and understands the challenges encountered in election management.
He is also said to be a strong character capable of handling political pressure, resolve disputes, and maintain neutrality during elections.
The source told our correspondent that President Tinubu is taking his time to name a replacement for Yakubu and will avoid the temptation of settling for man who would court controversy from the onset.