The Presidency has firmly debunked rumors claiming that Professor Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has been sacked and replaced. The false narrative, which circulated widely on social media on Monday, April 7, 2025, suggested that Yakubu had been removed from his position and succeeded by a certain Professor Bashiru Olamilekan. However, official statements from the Presidency have dismissed these claims as baseless.
The rumor gained traction online, prompting swift clarification from Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy. In a statement released on Monday, Onanuga labeled the reports as “fake news” and urged the public to disregard them.
He emphasized that no such decision had been made by the Presidency and that Yakubu remains the INEC Chairman as of April 7, 2025. The statement was echoed by O’tega Ogra, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Digital and New Media, who clarified via his X handle that any official announcement regarding such a significant change would come directly from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) or another authorized channel.
The Cable, another reputable Nigerian news outlet, reported that the Presidency’s response was a direct rebuttal to the viral claims, reinforcing that Yakubu continues to lead INEC. The publication highlighted that the false narrative included fabricated details, such as the alleged appointment of Professor Bashiru Olamilekan, a name not associated with INEC in any official capacity. The swift rebuttal underscores the government’s efforts to curb misinformation, especially concerning sensitive institutions like INEC, which plays a pivotal role in Nigeria’s democratic process.
This is not the first time Yakubu has been the subject of false death or dismissal rumors. Punch Newspapers recalled that in December 2024, INEC had to dispel similar claims alleging Yakubu’s death in a London hospital, confirming his good health and presence at official engagements. The recurrence of such misinformation has raised concerns about its potential to destabilize public trust in electoral authorities.
As of Monday evening, April 7, 2025, no evidence supports the claim of Yakubu’s sack, and INEC has not issued any statement indicating a leadership change. The Presidency’s clarification reaffirms Yakubu’s position, urging Nigerians to rely on verified sources for updates on such matters.
