The Federal High Court sitting in Osogbo recently issued an order directing the Inspector General of Police to arrest the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu.
The arrest order follows the Chairman’s alleged failure to comply with a court ruling that instructed INEC to upload the name of the Action Alliance (AA) political party’s national chairman on its official portal.
The court had given a seven-day deadline to implement the ruling, which reportedly expired in October 2025, leading to the arrest directive.
Rumors and Public Speculation
The court’s decision came amid growing rumors in political circles. Weeks before the arrest order, there were unconfirmed reports on social media claiming that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had asked Professor Yakubu to “go on leave,” sparking speculation about his possible resignation or removal.
Several online sources alleged that the INEC Chairman was under pressure for allegedly supporting emerging political movements or candidates not aligned with the ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC). Others suggested that his resistance to alleged attempts to influence election processes had made him a target of political forces.
One widely circulated story even claimed that he had been “chased out” of office an image that, while unsupported by any official report, gained traction due to the tense political climate and the arrest threat.
What Really Happened
Despite the speculation, official records confirm that Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s tenure naturally ended in October 2025, marking the formal conclusion of his second term as INEC Chairman. There was no formal dismissal or forced resignation.
In recognition of his service, President Tinubu officially accepted his exit and conferred on him a national honor Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON). The ceremony was held without controversy, further indicating a planned and protocol-based transition.
Following his exit, May Agbamuche Mbu, the most senior national commissioner at INEC, assumed duties as Acting Chairman, in line with administrative guidelines. She is expected to oversee the commission’s affairs until a substantive chairman is appointed and confirmed.
Looking Ahead
While the arrest order has stirred debate and fueled speculation, there is no official confirmation that Professor Yakubu has been arrested or is facing any criminal charges at this time. Legal experts note that the court’s directive was based on a specific case involving the Action Alliance party and does not directly relate to the broader claims circulating online.
For now, INEC continues its operations under new leadership as Nigeria prepares for upcoming elections.
Although questions remain about the timing of the court order and the rumors surrounding Yakubu’s exit, there is no verifiable evidence of misconduct or forced removal.
As developments unfold, observers will be watching closely to see whether the legal and political narratives intersect or diverge.
