The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, on Thursday presided over the commission’s routine weekly meeting and approved the promotion of several junior staff members, despite rumours on social media claiming he had proceeded on terminal leave.
According to Mr. Sam Olumekun, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, the meeting also reviewed preparations for key upcoming elections, including the Anambra State governorship poll, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council election, and party primaries for the Ekiti and Osun governorship races.
Olumekun disclosed that the commission approved the 2025 promotion of 471 eligible junior staff in grades GL 03–06, following recommendations from the Appointment, Promotion and Disciplinary Committee (APDC) and in line with INEC’s Staff Conditions of Service.
Out of 515 staff considered, 214 were promoted to GL07, 134 to GL06, 106 to GL05 and 17 to GL04. He explained that this marks the completion of the first phase of the promotion exercise, with the senior staff promotion process already underway.
“Staff promotion is a routine exercise. The Commission remains committed to merit-based advancement and staff welfare. We encourage all staff to remain dedicated, particularly in the conduct of elections and electoral activities,” Olumekun said.
An online platform had earlier reported that President Bola Tinubu directed Yakubu to begin terminal leave. However, Vanguard confirmed that Yakubu’s second five-year tenure will officially end on December 8, 2025.
Unlike some government appointees, the INEC chairman is not subject to civil service regulations requiring a three-month terminal leave. His predecessor, Prof. Attahiru Jega, similarly served until the final day of his tenure.
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