When Professor Mahmood Yakubu was appointed Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in 2015, few foresaw the magnitude of change he would attempt—or the controversies that would follow.
Nearly a decade later, Yakubu leaves behind a legacy marked by significant institutional reform, digital innovation, and a persistent struggle for public trust. As his tenure comes to an end, observers are reflecting on an era defined by both structural transformation and polarising public reception.
A historian and seasoned administrator, Prof. Yakubu orchestrated two general elections—2019 and 2023—as well as numerous off-cycle polls. His hallmark reforms included the introduction of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal, which were designed to curb fraud and promote transparency.
Yet, despite these advancements, the 2023 presidential election exposed critical gaps. Technical failures, particularly with the IReV portal, dented public confidence and raised questions about INEC’s readiness. Critics accused the Commission of rushing digital integration without adequate safeguards or clear communication.
Yakubu’s tenure also saw legal milestones, notably the passage of the Electoral Act 2022. The Act empowered INEC to deploy technology and review compromised results, reinforcing the Commission’s autonomy. The reversal of the controversial Adamawa governorship declaration remains a standout application of this legal authority.
Efforts to expand voter access were equally ambitious. INEC registered over 12 million new voters and created 56,000 new polling units—the first such expansion since 1996. The Commission also introduced inclusive measures for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), though implementation gaps persisted, especially in rural areas.
Notably, Prof. Yakubu spearheaded the establishment of an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Division within INEC, aimed at combating misinformation and improving logistics. While still in its early stages, the initiative signals a commitment to future-proofing Nigeria’s electoral processes.
Despite these strides, Yakubu often struggled with public perception. The phrase “Go to court”—widely associated with INEC’s post-election posture—became a symbol of detachment, reinforcing voter skepticism. Stakeholder engagement was robust in design but faltered during moments of crisis, especially in the aftermath of the 2023 elections.
Prof. Yakubu’s leadership was defined by a systems-driven approach rooted in his academic background, prioritising due process over populist appeal. While admired by institutional reform advocates, he remained a distant figure to a public craving direct engagement and accountability.
As INEC prepares for a leadership transition, questions linger about the sustainability of Yakubu’s reforms. Can his successor build on the technological and legal foundation laid during this era? And more importantly, can public trust in Nigeria’s electoral system be restored?
One thing is clear: Prof. Mahmood Yakubu’s legacy is both consequential and complex—an enduring paradox of progress and perception.