INEC Refutes False Reports Of Chairman’s Demise, Urges Public To Avoid Fake News.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has strongly refuted rumours circulating on social media regarding the death of its Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, describing the claims as entirely false and misleading.
In a press statement released on Saturday, the Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, urged the public to “disregard the rumour,” affirming that Prof. Yakubu is “alive, hale and hearty.”
The misinformation, which emerged on 9 December 2024, caused concern among citizens and stakeholders. Mr. Oyekanmi dismissed the false claims that Prof. Yakubu had travelled to London, clarifying that the INEC Chairman “has not travelled to London in over two years.”
To counter the rumours, the statement highlighted Prof. Yakubu’s recent public engagements, including his participation in an interactive session with the House of Representatives Committee on Electoral Matters on 11 December 2024. He also chaired a commission meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners the following day—events widely covered on television and in leading newspapers.
Mr. Oyekanmi recalled a similar false narrative that circulated in 2021 pointing out that the re-emergence of such fake news is a deliberate act of mischief. He warned that spreading such unverified information could have far-reaching consequences, stating: “Those who indulge in this practice, as well as those who spread it, should be mindful of its effect not only on the individual but also on the wider society.”
INEC reaffirmed its commitment to tackling fake news, pledging to collaborate with credible media professionals to “mitigate the risks posed by fake news.”The commission also called on the public to remain vigilant, verify information sources, and avoid spreading sensationalist content that could disrupt societal peace and harmony.
By addressing these false claims head-on, INEC seeks to reassure the public of its unwavering focus on its mandate and to protect the integrity of factual information in the digital age.
