May Agbamuche-Mbu Makes History as Nigeria’s First Female INEC Chairperson
When news broke on October 7, 2025, that Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu had assumed the role of Acting Chairperson of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), it marked not just an administrative transition, but a symbolic turning point in Nigeria’s democratic story.
For the first time since the nation’s return to democracy in 1999, a woman would be at the helm of the body responsible for conducting Nigeria’s elections.
A New Chapter After Mahmood Yakubu’s Exit
Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu’s appointment followed the completion of tenure by Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who had served two consecutive terms as INEC Chair from 2015 to 2025. In line with INEC’s internal regulations, the most senior national commissioner steps in to act as chair until a substantive appointment is made by the President and confirmed by the Senate.
By seniority, that responsibility fell on Agbamuche-Mbu — a lawyer of over three decades’ standing and the longest-serving member of the commission.
Her emergence may have been procedural, but its significance is far from ordinary. It represents a quiet yet powerful stride for gender inclusion in Nigeria’s public institutions.
A Transition Rooted in Procedure but Rich in Symbolism
Agbamuche-Mbu’s appointment came after the exit of Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who successfully completed his second and final term as INEC Chair.
In keeping with INEC’s internal succession structure, the most senior national commissioner automatically assumes leadership until a substantive chairperson is appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate.
By virtue of her experience and longevity in the commission, Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu was next in line. But while the appointment followed institutional procedure, its symbolic weight has reverberated across the nation — not simply because of the office, but because of what it represents: a woman at the pinnacle of Nigeria’s electoral administration.
Who Is May Agbamuche-Mbu?
Born in Kano and hailing from Delta State, May Agbamuche-Mbu embodies a blend of northern upbringing and southern roots — a reflection of Nigeria’s diversity.
She holds a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degree from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), obtained in 1984, and later earned a Master of Laws (LL.M) in Commercial and Corporate Law from Queen Mary & Westfield College, University of London. She was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1985.
Her professional journey spans law, publishing, and governance. Before joining INEC, she was the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of The Brief, a respected Nigerian legal magazine, and managed a private law practice that specialized in corporate and commercial law.
She joined INEC in 2016 as a National Commissioner representing Delta, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom States, and has since chaired several key committees — particularly the Legal Services, Clearance, and Complaints Committee.
Colleagues describe her as “calm, principled, and deeply institutional.” That quiet strength has now placed her in the most visible electoral position in
Nigeria.
Breaking the Glass Ceiling in Electoral Leadership
While her appointment is “acting,” the significance cannot be overstated. Agbamuche-Mbu is the first woman to lead INEC in any capacity — a breakthrough moment in a country where leadership in political and administrative structures has remained heavily male-dominated.
Nigeria’s democratic institutions have long struggled with gender imbalance. Despite notable progress in private and civic spaces, women still occupy less than 10% of elective and top public offices.
Agbamuche-Mbu’s elevation, therefore, is not just an appointment — it’s a signal of possibility.
Advocates for women’s political participation have hailed the development.
“Her appointment is a victory for competence and representation,” said a member of the Women in Politics Forum (WIPF). “It shows that institutional leadership is achievable for women who are qualified, disciplined, and committed.”
The Tasks Ahead: Building Trust and Ensuring Continuity
Beyond the symbolism, Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu steps into an office burdened with high expectations. INEC remains central to the credibility of Nigeria’s democracy, and the challenges are as political as they are logistical.
The commission under Yakubu introduced major reforms — including the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and electronic result transmission — which were designed to enhance transparency. However, these innovations have faced both praise and criticism, especially after the 2023 general elections.
Maintaining public confidence in these systems while pushing for further electoral integrity will be one of her most urgent tasks.
In the short term, Agbamuche-Mbu will oversee off-cycle elections in Edo and Ondo States — often seen as tests of INEC’s operational efficiency. She will also be expected to uphold neutrality, fairness, and adherence to the Electoral Act 2022, while preparing for a smooth transition to a substantive chair person.
A Broader Meaning for Law and Governance
For students of law and governance, Agbamuche-Mbu’s ascent underscores the intersection between legal expertise and public service.
Her journey from law school to INEC’s leadership highlights how a legal background can prepare individuals for roles in policy, compliance, and institutional regulation — areas critical to the health of Nigeria’s democracy.
Her story also invites reflection on gender equality in legal leadership. Despite the large number of female law graduates in Nigeria, few rise to national leadership positions. Agbamuche-Mbu’s example thus serves as both inspiration and challenge to the next generation of women in law.
Looking Beyond Titles: A Legacy in the Making
While her tenure as Acting Chair may be brief, its legacy could be lasting.
Her presence alone has already inspired conversation — not only about who leads Nigeria’s electoral institutions, but also how they are led.
In a political environment often dominated by cynicism, her steady professionalism offers a reminder that quiet competence can still make history.
If she manages to stabilize INEC during this transition, sustain public trust, and champion reforms, her impact will extend beyond gender — into the very credibility of Nigeria’s democratic system.
From a Law Student’s Perspective
For law students and young aspiring lawyers, Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu’s story is a masterclass in how legal training can shape leadership.
Her progression from the courtroom to the commission room shows that the study of law is not just about statutes it is about service, fairness, and courage.
She stands as a living example that every legal mind can contribute meaningfully to national development — whether through advocacy, administration, or reform.
Conclusion
May Agbamuche-Mbu’s appointment represents a delicate blend of procedure, progress, and promise.
It is procedural because it follows institutional succession rules; progressive because it marks a gender milestone; and promising because it invites renewed hope in the possibility of competent, principled leadership.
Whether her role lasts months or years, it has already achieved something remarkable — it has reminded Nigerians that leadership is not defined by gender, but by service, integrity, and the courage to uphold democracy when it matters most.
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