Former INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu
Rotimi Oyekanmi, a former Chief Press Secretary to the immediate past Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, has dismissed claims that staff at the commission sang a “funeral song” as the chairman departed office.
Oyekanmi, who exited alongside Prof. Yakubu, refuted what he described as a “gross misrepresentation” of the send-off moment at the INEC headquarters, calling the viral media report a deliberate twist of the facts.
In a statement issued in Abuja, Oyekanmi took aim at the report, particularly one published by Sahara Reporters, accusing the platform of peddling falsehoods.
“The visible show of love and respect displayed by the appreciative INEC staff at the commission’s headquarters yesterday as the departing former INEC Chairman, Yakubu, walks to his car is now being intentionally misinterpreted and misrepresented as a ‘funeral song,’” Oyekanmi said.
He continued: “This deliberate piece of disinformation can only be conjured by a set of haters masquerading as journalists at Sahara Reporters. But they have failed and will continue to fail.”
Oyekanmi emphasized that contrary to the misleading narrative, staff across all levels of the commission openly praised Yakubu’s leadership, particularly highlighting his reform-driven approach over the past decade.
He pointed out that during Yakubu’s tenure, both senior and junior staff witnessed unprecedented promotions, improved allowances, and expanded capacity-building opportunities.
“The INEC staff consistently demonstrated admiration and gratitude toward Prof. Yakubu throughout his tenure,” Oyekanmi noted.
He expressed concern over the role of media in spreading what he called calculated attempts to undermine individuals.
“Journalism is about facts, accuracy and truthfulness, not a vehicle to be misused by pseudo-journalists to embark on a campaign of calumny against individuals,” he said. “It is high time the management of Sahara Reporters cautioned persons using its platform to spread lies about individuals, institutions and events, which will be detrimental to the newspaper’s reputation in the long run.”
“Prof. Yakubu’s place in history is assured, no matter the lies being spread by familiar forces,” he added.
Yakubu formally handed over the reins of the commission on Tuesday to Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, the most senior National Commissioner, who will serve as Acting Chairman pending a new appointment.
Appointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari in October 2015, Yakubu was reappointed for a second term in December 2020, making him the first INEC Chairman to serve two full terms since the return to democracy.
During the handover ceremony, Yakubu explained that stepping aside was necessary to allow for a smooth transition and ensure continuity in the commission’s operations.
Agbamuche-Mbu, in her brief remarks, commended Yakubu for his dedication and the high standards set during his tenure. Staff members cheered him with songs of appreciation as he took a final walk from the commission’s headquarters after a group photo.
Just a day earlier, INEC had honored Yakubu with an Excellence Service Delivery Award during its 2025 Customer Service Week celebration.
