[FACT CHECK]: Is INEC Chairman Professor Mahmood Yakubu Dead or Alive? What We Know So Far
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) plays a crucial role in Nigeria’s democratic process, and its chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has been at the helm of this institution since 2015. Given the importance of his position, rumors about his health or wellbeing can quickly gain traction.
Recall some online news platform reported that the INEC Chairman died in London after a sudden medical emergency overnight.. …CONTINUE READING
Is INEC Chairman Dead?
As of December 2024, Professor Mahmood Yakubu is alive and actively discharging his duties as the INEC Chairman. Recent speculation surrounding his status appears to be unfounded. It is important to note that no credible news outlet or official statement has reported his demise.
There have been unsubstantiated claims that Professor Mahmood Yakubu was ill and hospitalized in the United Kingdom, where he reportedly passed away. However, these reports have not been verified by any credible sources, and INEC has not issued any statement confirming such allegations.
Mahmood Yakubu’s Recent Activities:
Professor Yakubu continues to lead INEC in preparing for various electoral events. His leadership has been instrumental in overseeing electoral reforms and implementing technological innovations like the Biometric Voter Accreditation System (BVAS).
INEC Response to the news:
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has dismissed rumors circulating about the death of its Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, calling them false and baseless.
In a statement on Saturday, Rotimi Oyekanmi, the Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, confirmed that Yakubu is alive and well.
“Our attention has been drawn to a fake news narrative circulated by a section of the social media claiming the purported death of the INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu at a London hospital. The story first appeared on Monday, 9th December 2024.
“We hereby appeal to the public to disregard the rumour. Prof. Yakubu is alive, hale and hearty. In fact, he has not travelled to London in the last two years.
“He was present at an interactive meeting with the House of Representatives Committee on Electoral Matters on Wednesday, 11th December 2024.
“He also chaired the Commission’s meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners on Thursday, 12th December 2024. Both events were widely covered on television and reported on the front pages of most newspapers yesterday, Friday 13th December 2024.
“The public may recall that mischief-makers on the social media carried a similar fake story in 2021. Three years later, they are spreading the same rumour again.
“Those who indulge in this practice, as well as those who spread it, should be mindful of its effect not only on the individual but also the wider society.
“The Commission will continue to work with genuine media professionals to combat the scourge of fake news and the danger it poses to society,” the statement said.
Why Accurate Information Matters:
In an era of rampant misinformation, it is vital to verify news before sharing it. Unfounded claims can create unnecessary panic and distract from the ongoing efforts of institutions like INEC to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.
Professor Mahmood Yakubu remains alive and committed to his role as INEC Chairman. The public is encouraged to rely on credible sources for information regarding public officials and to avoid spreading unverified rumors. For updates about INEC and its activities, always visit Kanyi Daily News or INEC’s official channels.
