Nigeria TV Info 

Terminal Leave: INEC’s Mahmood Chairs Weekly Meeting

Amid speculation about his imminent exit, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, on Thursday presided over the commission’s weekly management meeting in Abuja.

The development comes as reports circulate that Mahmood may soon embark on terminal leave ahead of the expiration of his tenure in November 2025. However, sources within the commission disclosed that the chairman remains actively engaged in INEC’s routine activities, including preparations for upcoming off-cycle governorship elections and ongoing reforms in electoral processes.

Senior officials present at the meeting said Mahmood used the session to review INEC’s operational plans, logistics, and the commission’s relationship with stakeholders in the electoral process.

Although there has been no official confirmation from the presidency or INEC regarding his leave, political analysts say the discussions around succession underscore the sensitivity of leadership transitions in the nation’s electoral body.

Mahmood, who has served since 2015, oversaw the conduct of the 2019 and 2023 general elections, both of which were marked by major reforms and controversy. His exit is expected to open a fresh debate over the appointment of a successor capable of steering the commission ahead of the 2027 general elections.