By Our correspondent
Confusion is trailing the reported directive that the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, should proceed on retirement leave, raising uncertainty over his role in the November 8 Governorship election in Anambra State.
Though no official confirmation has been issued from the Presidency, multiple reports suggest that President Bola Tinubu may have asked Yakubu to vacate office ahead of the expiration of his tenure.
INEC has yet to issue a clear statement on the matter, with its Chief Press Secretary advising Nigerians to be guided by constitutional provisions regarding the appointment and removal of the electoral umpire.
Observers say the development has thrown the Anambra electoral landscape into suspense.
With barely weeks to the Anambra polls, fears are mounting that the Commission may face a leadership vacuum at a critical moment.
Analysts warn that uncertainty over who oversees the conduct of the election could dampen public confidence in the process.
Civil society groups and political stakeholders are already expressing concerns, urging the government to clarify the situation immediately to avoid jeopardising the credibility of the election.
INEC had earlier assured that preparations for the Anambra poll were on course, with deployment plans for personnel and materials already in place
But unless the leadership question is settled quickly, doubts remain over whether Prof. Yakubu will be in office to superintend the crucial election.
The Anambra Governorship election is widely seen as a litmus test for the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process ahead of subsequent national contests
