Mahmood Yakubu becomes first INEC chairman sworn in for second term

President Muhammedu Buhari has sworn in Mahmood Yakubu as chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for a second term.

The swearing-in ceremony was held at the State House in Abuja, on Wednesday.

Yakubu is the first person to serve as INEC chairman for two terms.

Buhari reappointed Yakubu for another five-year term in October, but the senate confirmed the appointment on December 1.

Speaking after the event, Yakubu said he considers his reappointment a privilege.

The INEC boss said the commission, under his leadership, will continue to fulfill its mandate in ensuring credible elections in Nigeria.

“We have clearly demonstrated in recent elections that elections are getting better and better and elections will continue to get better and better,” he said.

“It is a big responsibility. It is history. No Nigerian has been so privileged to serve as chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission twice.

“And it is a responsibility I am going to discharge consistent with the oath of office I took.”

Born in May 1962, Yakubu graduated with a first class degree in history from the University of Sokoto — now Usmanu Danfodiyo University — in 1985.

The INEC chairman is a professor of political history and international studies. He was appointed head of the commission in 2015 after the expiration of the tenure of Attahiru Jega, former INEC chairman.

His reappointment comes less than 30 months to the 2023 general election.