The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially refuted recent rumors regarding the death of its Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu. Chief Press Secretary Rotimi Oyekanmi clarified that the reports circulating on social media are false, emphasizing that Professor Yakubu is alive and in good health. He urged Nigerians to disregard the unfounded claims and noted that the INEC Chairman has not traveled to London in the past two years, contrary to the fabricated reports.
The rumors falsely claimed that Professor Yakubu passed away in London after a brief illness, suggesting he was transferred there for treatment but was pronounced dead. These allegations have been debunked by both INEC officials and independent fact-checking organizations. For instance, Africa Check confirmed that the claims are untrue, citing the absence of credible news reports and statements from INEC spokespersons affirming Professor Yakubu’s well-being.
This is not the first time such rumors have surfaced. A similar incident occurred in 2021, highlighting the persistence of misinformation. INEC has reiterated its commitment to combating fake news and emphasized the importance of relying on verified information from credible sources.
In the wake of these rumors, public figures have also spoken out to clarify the situation. Senator Shehu Sani, for example, publicly debunked the claims, stating that he had seen Professor Yakubu recently, thereby dispelling the false reports.
The INEC Chairman continues to fulfill his duties, including overseeing electoral processes and engaging with various stakeholders to ensure the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral system. The commission remains vigilant against the spread of misinformation and encourages the public to seek information from reliable and official channels.
