National honours conferred on former INEC chairman Mahmood Yakubu is undeserving – Iche
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National honours conferred on former INEC chairman Mahmood Yakubu is undeserving – Iche
By Naomi Onome
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, conferred on former INEC chairman Mahmood Yakubu a national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) in recognition of his service, prompting questions about the appropriateness of this recognition.
Comrade Prince Saviour Iche joins many Nigerians who are critical of Yakubu, citing his failure to deliver on promises of a free and fair 2023 election. Despite extensive funding and assurances regarding the functionality of the BVAS and transparency in the electoral process, the election was deemed neither transparent nor credible.
Already, many Nigerians are questioning this honorary decision, given the controversies surrounding the 2023 elections, which Professor Yakubu oversaw. Promises of free and fair elections, transparency, and the use of technology like the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) didn’t quite meet expectations, like issues with BVAS functionality and the timing of result announcements. The latest development has sparked mixed reactions among Nigerians; many are questioning the timing and rationale behind this award, especially considering the controversies surrounding the 2023 general elections that Professor Yakubu oversaw.
Iche critically highlighted the problematic announcement of results at midnight, leading to claims that Yakubu is one of the worst INEC chairmen there is. While the president has the authority to grant such awards, the timing and legitimacy of Yakubu’s honour have raised concerns among the public. Ultimately, the legitimacy of the award and Yakubu’s actions in office raise ethical questions that may weigh on his conscience as he transitions out of his role, Iche said.
Some perspectives on the conferment include:
Government’s View: President Tinubu acknowledged Professor Yakubu’s contributions to sustaining Nigeria’s democracy, highlighting his role in organising elections.
Critics’ View: Many Nigerians feel the award is undeserved, pointing to perceived shortcomings in the electoral process under his leadership, especially regarding the 2023 elections.
Conscience and Judgement: As you’ve noted, opinions vary; some believe Professor Yakubu’s actions should be judged by his conscience and the Nigerian people.
According to the context of INEC chairmen, so far Nigeria has had several INEC chairmen since 1998, each with their achievements and challenges. Ephraim Akpata (1998-2000): Laid foundational work for INEC; Abel Guobadia (2000-2005): Implemented reforms; Maurice Iwu (2005-2010): Oversaw the 2007 elections marred by irregularities; Attahiru Jega (2010-2015): Known for credible elections in 2011 and 2015; Mahmood Yakubu (2015-2025): Led INEC through several elections, including 2023.
However, recent developments reveal Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s tenure has ended, and President Tinubu has appointed Professor Bashiru Olamilekan as the new INEC Chairman, expected to shape Nigeria’s future electoral processes.
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