Should the appointment be made official, Akinyemi,a Professor of Political Science and International Relations will take over from Prof Mahmood Yakubu
In a post on his verified X handle, publisher and United States of America -based businessman, Jackson Udeh wrote: “Bola Tinubu is considering his close confidant and ally, a former External Affairs Minister Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi, to take over from Prof. Mahmoud Yakubu as the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC.
“Tinubu has fears that his second term ambition might hit the rock if a loyalist does not head INEC, ” an informant in Aso Rock confirmed to me.
“Akinyemi, 82, was former External Affairs Minister between 1985-1987 under the regime of General Ibrahim Babangida. He is a die hard supporter of Bola Tinubu.”
Akinyemi had in the last couple of years spoken in glowing terms about Tinubu and his political grip on Lagos and the entire South-West.
Renowned for his deep knowledge of diplomacy, the octogenarian is also known for his restraint and unwillingness to speak truth to power. He is more of an establishment person than a critic.