By Princess Adeola Shittu, Event Diary Lifestyle News
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu as its new Acting Chairman, following the commencement of terminal leave by Professor Mahmood Yakubu, whose tenure as substantive chairman gradually winds down.
Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu, who until now served as National Commissioner representing Delta, Edo, and Cross River States, assumed leadership in line with the Commission’s internal succession structure, being the most senior National Commissioner in service.
A seasoned lawyer, legal journalist, and administrator, Agbamuche-Mbu brings to the job over three decades of experience in law, public service, and institutional governance. She holds a Law degree from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1985, and later qualified as a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales. She also holds a Master’s degree in Commercial and Corporate Law from the University of London.
Before joining INEC, she was the Managing Partner at Norfolk Partners, a Lagos-based law firm, and served as Secretary of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK), Nigeria Branch. Her passion for justice and due process also saw her edit the popular THISDAY LAWYER pullout, where she authored the widely read “Legal Eagle” column.
During her tenure at INEC, Agbamuche-Mbu chaired the Legal Services, Clearance, and Complaints Committee, which played a key role in ensuring compliance with electoral laws and in screening political candidates ahead of elections. Her leadership in that capacity earned her respect within the Commission and among electoral stakeholders.
A native of Delta State but born and raised in Kano, the new acting INEC chair is described by colleagues as meticulous, firm, and deeply committed to institutional integrity. She steps into the role at a critical period, with several off-cycle governorship and legislative elections approaching, and rising public expectations for transparency and innovation in Nigeria’s electoral process.
Her appointment, though in an acting capacity, underscores the Commission’s emphasis on continuity and stability as it prepares for future polls.
As the first woman to lead INEC in an acting capacity in recent years, May Agbamuche-Mbu’s emergence is being viewed as a significant milestone for women in governance and a moment that may inspire confidence in Nigeria’s electoral leadership.