South Korean opposition leader Lee Jae-myung has officially declared his candidacy in the upcoming presidential by-election, following the ouster of former President Yoon Suk Yeol.
Announcing his bid on Thursday, Lee pledged to bridge the country’s deep political and economic divides through bold government spending and inclusive economic growth. The election, scheduled for June 3, was triggered by the Constitutional Court’s upholding of Yoon’s impeachment over his controversial martial law declaration.
Lee, who lost narrowly to Yoon in the 2022 presidential race, recently resigned as chairman of the liberal Democratic Party to focus on his campaign. He is currently the party’s leading candidate, with Gyeonggi Governor Kim Dong-yeon also entering the race.
In a campaign video, Lee criticized the growing wealth gap and emphasized the need for government-driven investment in talent and technology to revive the economy.
“We have more than before, but wealth remains concentrated,” Lee said. “Private sector growth alone is no longer sufficient. Government intervention is essential to restore balance and stimulate the economy.”
Lee also underscored the importance of maintaining strong ties with the United States and Japan, while reaffirming that South Korea’s national interests must guide all foreign policy decisions.
Known for his anti-elitist stance and outspoken style, Lee remains a polarizing figure. His supporters see him as a reformist leader, while critics accuse him of populism and lacking realistic funding strategies for his policies. He is currently facing multiple legal challenges, including five criminal trials related to corruption.
The conservative People Power Party (PPP) is in disarray following Yoon’s removal, with internal divisions between loyalists and reformers. Several prominent conservatives, including Han Dong-hoon, Ahn Cheol-soo, Kim Moon Soo, Hong Joon-pyo, and Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon are expected to contest the party’s nomination.
Han, leading the anti-Yoon faction, also declared his presidential bid on Thursday, positioning himself as a centrist alternative who opposed Yoon’s martial law decree and warned against the rise of a “populist monster government” under Lee.
With the by-election set to determine South Korea’s next leader for a full five-year term, the race is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for the country’s democracy, economy, and global alliances.
President John Dramani Mahama has reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to enhancing its partnership with the Czech Republic, particularly in the areas of trade, industry, investment, and technological development.
Speaking at the opening of the Czech-Ghana Business Forum in Accra—part of a three-day state visit by Czech President Petr Pavel—President Mahama emphasized the vast potential for mutually beneficial cooperation between both nations.
The Forum focuses on strategic sectors such as agriculture, health, and water resource management, fostering collaboration between private sector players from both countries.
President Mahama highlighted the historical significance of Ghana-Czech relations, which date back to October 8, 1959, when Ghana first established diplomatic ties with the former Czechoslovak Socialist Republic.
“Today, we stand poised to elevate this relationship, transforming our historical bonds into dynamic 21st-century economic partnerships,” Mahama said.
He stressed that the gathering of influential business leaders and government officials signified the importance both nations place on deepening commercial and economic ties, especially amid ongoing global challenges.
President Mahama noted that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents new opportunities for partnership, as Ghana positions itself as a strategic gateway to West Africa’s growing market of 1.3 billion consumers.
He also introduced his administration’s 24-Hour Economic Policy, a forward-thinking initiative aimed at boosting productivity, optimizing infrastructure, and generating sustainable employment across key industries.
“This policy aligns with the goals of AfCFTA and focuses on sectors ripe for Czech-Ghanaian collaboration, including manufacturing, automobile production, and agro-processing,” Mahama explained.
He welcomed Czech expertise in machinery, automotive components, and advanced agro-processing technologies, all of which could help Ghana create high-value supply chains and maximize its agricultural potential.
In healthcare, President Mahama praised the Czech Republic’s excellence in medical innovation and manufacturing, citing the Medivac Programme and the Kpone Mini Hospital project as key areas of successful collaboration.
On trade, President Mahama shared data from the UN Home Trade Database showing that Czech exports to Ghana totaled $20.82 million in 2023, while Ghanaian exports to the Czech Republic reached approximately $1.12 billion. He described this trade imbalance not as a deficit but an opportunity for growth and diversification.
Czech President Petr Pavel commended Ghana for its democratic strength, natural resources, and leadership in regional stability.
“In an increasingly unstable world, Ghana stands out as a beacon of stability and opportunity. We share a common interest in building on friendship, shared values, and sustainable partnerships,” President Pavel said.
The Forum concluded with a strong commitment from both sides to foster deeper cooperation, build lasting partnerships, and unlock the full potential of Czech-Ghanaian economic relations.
On a night when Inter Miami needed magic, Lionel Messi delivered—again. Facing a one-goal deficit from the first leg, Inter Miami overturned the tie in style, defeating LAFC 3-1 at Chase Stadium to reach the CONCACAF Champions Cup semifinals.
Match Highlights:
Early Scare: LAFC took the lead in the 17th minute through a well-placed strike from Cristian Olivera, extending their aggregate advantage.
Messi Masterclass Begins: In the 25th minute, Messi struck back with a composed finish, assisted by long-time teammate Luis Suárez.
A Gift and a Goal: Minutes after halftime, a goalkeeping error from Hugo Lloris gifted Messi a simple tap-in, shifting the momentum in Miami’s favor.
Sealing the Deal: Messi completed his brace with a calm penalty conversion in the 83rd minute, following a foul on Jordi Alba in the box.
Post-Match Reaction:
Messi was named Man of the Match, not just for his goals but for orchestrating play with veteran precision. Inter Miami now heads into the semifinals with a renewed sense of purpose and belief in continental glory.
Barcelona 4-0 Borussia Dortmund: No Messi, No Problem at the Camp Nou
Over in Europe, FC Barcelona sent a strong message to their Champions League rivals with a dominant 4-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of the quarterfinals. Even in Messi’s absence, the Catalan side reminded fans of their continental pedigree.
Match Breakdown:
First Half Control: Raphinha broke the deadlock in the 25th minute, finding space on the right and curling in a brilliant shot.
Lewandowski’s Double: The Polish striker found the net twice (48’, 66’), showing world-class movement and finishing.
Yamal Makes It Four: Lamine Yamal, the teenage sensation, added to Dortmund’s misery in the 77th minute with a superb solo goal.
Key Stats:
Possession: 68% – 32% in favor of Barcelona
Shots on Target: Barcelona 9 – Dortmund 2
Pass Accuracy: 91% for Barça
Dortmund Captain Emre Can Slams His Team’s Effort
In the aftermath of the loss, Borussia Dortmund captain Emre Can didn’t hold back in his assessment.
“We weren’t aggressive enough. You can’t come to the Camp Nou and play like that. We didn’t fight. We weren’t brave. And in games like this, you get punished.”
The criticism sparked speculation about potential dressing room unrest, with the second leg now an uphill battle for the Bundesliga side.
Paris Saint-Germain 3-1 Aston Villa: PSG Overturns Early Deficit
In Paris, PSG showcased resilience by coming from behind to defeat Aston Villa 3-1 in their quarter-final first leg.
Match Breakdown:
Aston Villa’s Early Lead: The visitors stunned the home crowd by opening the scoring, putting PSG on the back foot.
Kvaratskhelia’s Equalizer: Khvicha Kvaratskhelia responded with a standout goal, bringing PSG level.
Doué’s Impact: Désiré Doué contributed significantly, helping PSG secure a two-goal advantage heading into the second leg.
Implications:
PSG’s offensive prowess was evident as they overturned the deficit, giving them a clear advantage for the return fixture in Birmingham.
Looking Ahead: Second Leg Fixtures
The second legs are scheduled as follows:
April 15, 2025:
Aston Villa vs. Paris Saint-Germain
Borussia Dortmund vs. FC Barcelona
Teams will aim to capitalize on or overturn first-leg results to secure a spot in the semi-finals.
In a developing situation that could significantly impact Nigeria’s energy sector, workers of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) have issued a strong warning of a nationwide shutdown over alleged irregularities and dissatisfaction within the management structure.
This growing tension follows internal reports suggesting unrest among staff over what they describe as non-inclusive and opaque executive decisions. Union representatives have expressed concerns that senior appointments are being made without due process or fair consultation, sparking widespread outrage among the workforce.
Workers Raise Concerns Over Leadership Imbalance
According to union leaders, the management structure of NNPC has become increasingly centralized, with a few individuals allegedly making critical decisions that affect the entire organization. The unions argue that this has led to marginalization, a lack of accountability, and reduced morale among staff.
“We cannot continue to allow a system where a few executives control decisions that affect thousands of workers,” one union official stated during a press conference in Abuja. “The structure must reflect fairness, inclusivity, and professionalism.”
The workers are calling for a complete overhaul of the executive management team and demand active engagement from the federal government to resolve the issue.
NNPC Management Responds
Responding to the tension, the management of NNPC issued a statement urging calm and explaining that all internal staffing decisions followed proper governance procedures. They assured employees that steps are being taken to address the unions’ concerns and foster internal peace.
Still, union leaders remain doubtful, pointing out that similar promises in the past did not result in real changes.
“We have heard words before. What we need now is concrete action,” a senior union representative told the press.
What the Nigerian Labour Law Says About External Recruitment
In Nigeria, the Labour Act governs the recruitment of workers, mainly focusing on regulating recruitment agencies and protecting workers’ rights. It stipulates that no person or association can recruit citizens for employment without the appropriate permits, but these provisions apply primarily to rank-and-file workers rather than top managerial positions. The recruitment of senior executives typically falls under the internal governance of organizations, such as the board of directors, who make staffing decisions, including the hiring of external candidates for top roles.
Regarding NNPC, the organization should review its internal policies on recruitment to ensure that top managerial appointments are made transparently, inclusively, and in compliance with legal standards. It is crucial to engage relevant stakeholders and adhere to corporate governance frameworks to address the concerns raised by workers about alleged irregularities in the appointment process. This will promote a fair and equitable recruitment process.
Stance of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) Regarding External Recruitment
The Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) of 2021 grants NNPC Limited autonomy to manage its operations, including recruitment, in line with corporate governance standards. Section 53 of the PIA transformed NNPC into a commercially driven entity, allowing flexibility similar to private sector companies, including the recruitment of external personnel for top management positions. While the PIA does not limit the number of external recruits for such roles, it emphasizes transparency, merit, and corporate governance in the recruitment process to ensure the selection of qualified candidates.
Although the PIA permits external recruitment, other regulatory frameworks, such as the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Act, encourage the use of local expertise. Therefore, NNPC Limited is encouraged to balance external recruitment with the development and promotion of internal talent, fostering a skilled and motivated workforce. Recruitment for top management positions should align with principles of merit, transparency, and corporate governance while considering regulations that promote local content and internal career growth.
In conclusion, The unrest among NNPC workers underscores the need for greater transparency and fairness in the company’s management and recruitment practices. While NNPC has assured action, workers remain skeptical. Addressing these concerns will be crucial to maintaining stability within the organization and the energy sector.
The Federal Executive Council (FEC) has officially approved the full implementation of the previously suspended Naira-for-Crude agreement involving local petroleum refiners.
This directive was announced by the Ministry of Finance via its official X handle in a post titled “Update on the Crude and Refined Product Sales in Naira Initiative” on Wednesday.
The first phase of the agreement a six-month deal involving the Federal Government, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), and Dangote Petroleum Refinery—ended on March 31, 2025. Due to the lack of renewal, Dangote Refinery has since ceased selling refined petroleum products in naira.
In its latest update, the Ministry clarified that the policy is not intended to be temporary, but rather a long-term initiative designed to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on foreign exchange for petroleum transactions. This update followed a key stakeholder meeting held on Tuesday to review progress and address implementation challenges.
The Ministry emphasized that the Naira-for-Crude initiative is part of a broader national strategy to support sustainable local refining, enhance energy security, and stabilize the foreign exchange market.
The statement read: “The Technical Sub-Committee on the Crude and Refined Product Sales in Naira initiative convened an update meeting on Tuesday to review progress and address ongoing implementation matters. The stakeholders reaffirmed the government’s continued commitment to the full implementation of this strategic initiative, as directed by the Federal Executive Council. Thus, the Crude and Refined Product Sales in Naira initiative is not a temporary or time-bound intervention, but a key policy directive designed to support sustainable local refining, bolster energy security, and reduce reliance on foreign exchange in the domestic petroleum market.”
The policy mandates that crude oil and refined petroleum products be transacted in Naira, with the goal of strengthening Nigeria’s economic sovereignty, encouraging investment in local refining, and reducing the pressure on the forex market.
The Ministry also noted that while the policy transition presents some challenges, these are being systematically addressed through coordinated efforts among stakeholders.
“As with any major policy shift, the Committee acknowledges that implementation challenges may arise from time to time. However, such issues are being actively addressed through coordinated efforts among all parties. The initiative remains in effect and will continue for as long as it aligns with the public interest and supports national economic objectives,” it noted.
The meeting was attended by key government and industry figures, including the Chairman of the Implementation Committee, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; Chairman of the Technical Sub-Committee and Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Mr. Zacch Adedeji; Chief Financial Officer of NNPC Limited, Mr. Dapo Segun; Coordinator of NNPC Refineries; Management of NNPC Trading.
Also in attendance were representatives from Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, Central Bank of Nigeria, Nigerian Ports Authority, Afreximbank, and Committee Secretary Hauwa Ibrahim.
The Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) has raised concerns over Nigeria’s continued ban on the importation of 25 categories of goods, stating that the restrictions hinder access to the Nigerian market for American exporters.
The criticism was issued on Monday and follows closely on the heels of a move by former U.S. President Donald Trump to impose a 14 percent tariff on goods entering the United States, including those from Nigeria.
According to the USTR, Nigeria’s ban has negatively affected several industries, particularly agriculture, pharmaceuticals, beverages, and consumer goods. The restricted items include commonly traded goods such as beef, pork, poultry, fruit juices, medicaments, and alcoholic beverages—products the U.S. views as key exports.
“Nigeria’s import ban on 25 different product categories impacts U.S. exporters, particularly in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, beverages, and consumer goods. Restrictions on items like beef, pork, poultry, fruit juices, medicaments, and spirits limit U.S. market access and reduce export opportunities. These policies create significant trade barriers that lead to lost revenue for U.S. businesses looking to expand in the Nigerian market,” the agency said via its X handle.
Nigeria initially introduced the ban in 2016 as part of efforts to reduce reliance on imports and promote local production. Items on the banned list include poultry, pork, refined vegetable oil, sugar, cocoa products, spaghetti, beer, and specific pharmaceutical products.
More recently, on March 26, 2025, the Federal Government announced a new plan to prohibit the importation of solar panels. This initiative is aimed at boosting domestic production in support of Nigeria’s clean energy agenda.
Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, has approved the appointment of a new chairman and members for the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC).
According to an official statement, Dr. Micheal Ekpai Odey has been named as the new RSIEC Chairman. He will be working alongside six members, including four professors.
The appointments were made public in a Government Special Announcement released on Wednesday by the Secretary to the Rivers State Government, Prof. Ibibia Worika. The statement, which was shared with newsmen, noted that the appointments are effective from Monday, April 7, 2025.
It reads, “The following have also been appointed as Chairman and members of the Rivers State Electoral Commission: “Dr Micheal Ekpai Odey, Chairman Mr Lezaasi Lenee Torbira Member Prof Author Nwafor Professor Godfrey Woke Mbgudiogha Member Professor (Dame) Joyce Akaninwor Member Dr (Mrs) Olive A. Bruce Member Professor Chidi Halliday Member. All appointments take effect from Monday, the 7th of April 2025.”
This development follows Ibas’ recent decision to suspend the heads of all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies in the state, including the previous leadership of RSIEC, which had been chaired by Justice Adolphus Enebeli (retd.).
Nigeria’s Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, has stressed the urgent need for real-time intelligence sharing among the country’s security agencies as a critical step toward improving threat response and ensuring national stability.
Speaking at an Interagency Security Seminar held at the Army War College Nigeria, Abuja, the Minister said that bridging existing gaps in intelligence coordination is vital for proactively addressing Nigeria’s evolving security landscape.
The seminar, themed “Multiplicity of Operations in Nigeria’s Contemporary Security Landscape: Optimizing Multi-Agency Efforts for Effective Threat Response,” brought together security stakeholders and experts to discuss collaborative strategies for safeguarding the nation.
Gaidam said the country must move away from isolated agency responses and adopt a unified, technology-driven approach that includes law enforcement, the military, intelligence agencies, and civil society.
“The need to establish a seamless and secure mechanism for real-time intelligence sharing is of utmost importance in managing our security issues,” he said. “This will enhance our capacity for proactive and preemptive responses to threats.”
The Minister added that leveraging modern technologies—such as artificial intelligence, advanced surveillance systems, and digital forensics—would boost operational efficiency. He also proposed cross-agency training exercises and joint simulations to improve synergy and build trust among security personnel.
Highlighting the complexity of Nigeria’s security threats, Gaidam noted ongoing insurgency and terrorism in the North-East, banditry and farmer-herder clashes in the North-West and North-Central, separatist movements in the South-East, and organized crime in the South-South and South-West.
“These threats are further compounded by economic disparities, governance deficits, porous borders, and the increasing sophistication of criminal networks,” he stated.
He emphasized that a multi-agency approach is no longer optional but necessary, calling on the police to deepen cooperation with the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, DSS, Civil Defence, Immigration, and Customs services.
He also highlighted the importance of involving civilians in security management through strengthened police-community relations and community policing initiatives, which he said would significantly improve intelligence gathering and public trust.
Also speaking at the event, Major General Babagana Mohammed Monguno (Rtd), who served as the guest lecturer, reiterated the critical role of military operations in restoring national security. He noted that while security operations are ongoing in all geopolitical zones, threats still persist, making it imperative to adopt a more comprehensive and strategic national response.
“Despite the successes of current operations, security threats continue to disrupt livelihoods and instill fear across the country. A coordinated, multi-sectoral approach is essential to counter these challenges effectively,” he said.
The seminar concluded with a shared commitment among stakeholders to strengthen cooperation and modernize Nigeria’s security infrastructure to respond swiftly to emerging threats.
Saudi Arabia’s visa restrictions have sparked confusion in Nigeria Ahead of 2025 Hajj.
Nigerians were thrown into a state of uncertainty on Monday, 7th April following reports of new visa restrictions imposed by Saudi Arabia, raising concerns about their potential impact on the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.
Misinformation quickly spread online, with some interpreting the policy as a blanket ban on Nigerian participation in the annual Islamic pilgrimage.
However, both the Federal Government of Nigeria and Saudi authorities have moved to clarify the situation, dispelling rumors and providing key details about the temporary measures.
The confusion stems from a notice issued by Saudi Arabia, widely circulated by Gulf-based media, announcing a temporary suspension of short-term visa issuance to nationals of 14 countries, including Nigeria.
The policy, effective April 13, 2025, affects single and multi-entry business visas, tourist e-visas, and family visit visas.
Other nations impacted include Egypt, Morocco, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, India, Tunisia, Yemen, Jordan, Iraq, Indonesia, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. The suspension is set to last through June 2025, coinciding with the conclusion of the Hajj season.
Saudi authorities explained that the measure is part of a broader effort to regulate travel ahead of the pilgrimage, following challenges during the 2024 Hajj.
Last year, the kingdom recorded at least 1,301 deaths, primarily due to extreme heat and logistical strain, with most fatalities linked to pilgrims lacking official Hajj permits.
The Saudi government has since tightened controls to prevent overcrowding and the misuse of non-pilgrimage visas during the sacred event.
Key Facts
Effective Date and Scope: The visa suspension begins April 13, 2025, and applies to short-term visa categories for nationals of the 14 listed countries.
Travel Window: Holders of existing short-term Saudi visas can enter the kingdom before April 13 but must depart by April 29, 2025, or face penalties, including a possible five-year entry ban.
Hajj Exemption: The restriction does not affect pilgrims traveling under the official Hajj scheme, facilitated by Nigeria’s National Hajj Commission (NAHCON) or approved tour operators.
Quota System: Saudi Arabia allocates a limited number of Hajj permits to each country, distributed via lottery. However, high costs often push pilgrims toward unauthorized travel options, a practice the new policy aims to curb.
Previous Restrictions: In February 2025, Saudi Arabia limited travel from these 14 countries to single-entry visas valid for 30 days and suspended one-year multiple-entry visas indefinitely.
How it affects you
The visa suspension does not signal a complete ban on Nigerians entering Saudi Arabia, as some social media claims suggested.
Pilgrims registered through NAHCON or recognized operators will still be granted Hajj visas, the only authorized travel document for the pilgrimage period.
However, tourist visa holders will be barred from entering or staying in Makkah between April 29 and June 11, 2025 (01 Thul Quda to 14 Thul Hijjah 1446 AH), to ensure compliance with Hajj regulations.
An official from NAHCON, described the policy as a routine adjustment, noting that “countries often tweak visa policies to achieve specific objectives.”
The official urged Nigerians to seek clarification from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or Saudi authorities rather than relying on unverified sources.
Federal Government and Saudi Authorities Response
The Federal Government of Nigeria swiftly addressed the wave of misinformation.
In a statement, Alkasim Abdulkadir, Special Assistant on Media and Communications Strategy to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, dismissed reports of a blanket visa ban as “entirely false.” He cited confirmation from the Saudi Tourism Centre, which clarified that no such directive exists beyond restrictions tied to the Hajj season.
“For clarity, the only restriction applies to tourist visa holders during the Hajj season,” the statement read. “Individuals holding a tourist visa are not permitted to perform Hajj.”
The ministry emphasized the importance of using official channels for updates and warned against spreading unverified claims.
Saudi authorities echoed this position, stating that the temporary suspension is a logistical measure to manage the influx of visitors during Hajj, building on lessons from the 2024 season’s challenges.
They reaffirmed that pilgrims with proper documentation remain welcome.
As the 2025 Hajj approaches, Nigerian stakeholders are encouraged to rely on NAHCON and other official bodies for guidance, ensuring a smooth and safe pilgrimage experience amidst the evolving travel policies.
On April 7, 2025, a wave of rumors swept through Nigeria’s digital landscape, alleging that President Bola Tinubu had dismissed Professor Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), replacing him with a supposed Professor Bashiru Olamilekan.
Within hours, both the presidency and INEC issued emphatic denials, exposing the claims as baseless and spotlighting the persistent challenge of misinformation in Nigeria’s electoral discourse.
As of April 08, 2025, Yakubu remains firmly in office, steering INEC toward critical milestones like the 2027 general elections, even as his tenure nears its scheduled end later this year.
The Rumor’s Roots and Rapid Rebuttal
The falsehood originated from a viral WhatsApp message, a platform notorious for amplifying unverified narratives in Nigeria.
By Monday evening, April 7, the claim had gained traction, prompting swift responses from authoritative voices.
O’tega Ogra, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Digital and New Media, took to X to debunk the story, stating, “The news is false—disregard it.”
He underscored that official decisions from President Tinubu’s administration are announced through formal channels, not rumor mills.
Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser on Policy Communication, reinforced this, urging the public to dismiss the report entirely.
INEC’s response was equally decisive. Rotimi Oyekanmi, Yakubu’s Chief Press Secretary, told Vanguard, “It’s not true—disregard the claim. ” The commission’s clarity quashed any lingering doubt, aligning with its track record of countering misinformation, as seen in December 2024 when it refuted false reports of Yakubu’s death in a London hospital.
The speed and unity inec-chairman-mahmood-not-sacked-spokesman/of these denials underscore a coordinated effort to protect public trust in Nigeria’s electoral leadership at a pivotal moment.
Yakubu’s Tenure: A Timeline Nearing Its Close
Professor Yakubu’s leadership of INEC is rooted in a decade-long tenure. First appointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari on October 21, 2015, he was sworn in on November 9, 2015, for his initial five-year term.
Reappointed on October 27, 2020, and sworn in again by December, his second term—capped at five years under Nigerian law—runs until December 2025. As of April 08, 2025, Yakubu has roughly eight months left, a timeline confirmed by both INEC and presidential statements. This places his exit well ahead of the February 2027 general elections, ensuring a transition period for his successor, who will require presidential nomination and Senate approval.
The rumor’s timing, just months before this natural conclusion, suggests either opportunistic misinformation or a misreading of INEC’s leadership cycle.
Yakubu’s tenure has been marked by significant electoral events, notably the 2023 general elections, and ongoing reforms, making his role a lightning rod for scrutiny and speculation.
The 2023 Elections, the controversies and Beyond
Yakubu’s chairmanship has not been without controversy, particularly following the 2023 elections.
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, speaking at Yale University’s Chinua Achebe Leadership Forum in late 2024, labeled those polls a “travesty” and demanded Yakubu’s removal, citing alleged irregularities that undermined public faith. His critique, echoed by some civil society groups, reflects a broader call for electoral overhaul—a sentiment Yakubu himself has acknowledged by pushing for reforms, including a proposed retreat with the National Assembly to amend the 2022 Electoral Act.
Yet, Yakubu has his defenders. Ohanaeze Ndigbo, in November 2024, dismissed Obasanjo’s stance as “partisan” and “ill-advised,” praising Yakubu’s efforts to modernize INEC, such as the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS). The Citizens for Democratic Reforms (CDF) similarly argued in November 2024 that Yakubu’s leadership has curbed elite control over elections, shifting power to voters—a point echoed in a September 2024 Vanguard piece hailing 2024 as a “milestone year” for INEC’s efficiency under Yakubu.
Recent developments bolster this narrative. In January 2025, Yakubu announced INEC’s implementation of 142 stakeholder recommendations from the 2023 election review, including enhanced training and technology deployment. His January 22, 2025, announcement of the February 21, 2026, FCT Area Council elections further demonstrates his focus on operational continuity, even as he flags rising election costs as a concern for lawmakers.
Misinformation’s Broader Threat
The April 2025 rumor is not an isolated incident. In December 2024, INEC battled false claims of Yakubu’s death, with Oyekanmi noting Yakubu’s active presence at meetings on December 11 and 12—events widely covered by media.
This pattern of fabricated narratives, from death hoaxes to dismissal tales, highlights a systemic challenge: misinformation’s power to destabilize trust in Nigeria’s democracy. INEC’s consistent rebuttals, often paired with appeals to “genuine media professionals,” signal a proactive stance, but the recurrence suggests deeper societal vulnerabilities.
Looking Ahead: Legacy and Transition
With Yakubu’s term ending in December 2025, the focus shifts to his legacy and INEC’s future. His tenure has seen technological strides (e.g., BVAS), logistical feats (e.g., 20 by-elections since 2023), and a push for inclusivity, like the May 2024 framework for inmates’ voting rights. Yet, financial strains—evident in his January 2025 plea for a ₦126 billion budget—underscore the challenges his successor will inherit.
The debunked rumor of April 7, 2025, is a fleeting distraction from these stakes. Yakubu remains in place, his exit predetermined by law, and not politics.
As Nigeria prepares for 2027, the real story lies not in WhatsApp whispers but in the ongoing battle to fortify its electoral system.
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