The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has categorically denied social media rumors claiming the death of its Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, in a London hospital.
According to a press release issued by the Commission on Saturday, the story first emerged on Monday, 9th December 2024, emphasizing the complete health and active professional engagement of Prof. Yakubu.
“Prof. Yakubu is alive, hale and hearty,” the official press release stated, directly challenging the circulating misinformation.
The statement highlighted that the INEC Chairman has not traveled to London in the past two years, effectively dismantling the fabricated claim.
Documentation of Prof. Yakubu’s recent activities provides compelling evidence against the rumor.
The Explainer learned he was prominently present at a high-profile interactive meeting with the House of Representatives Committee on Electoral Matters on Wednesday, 11th December 2024.
Additionally, he chaired the Commission’s critical meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners on Thursday, 12th December 2024 – both events extensively covered by television networks and prominently featured in newspaper front pages on Friday, 13th December 2024.
INEC drew attention to a similar deliberate misinformation campaign launched in 2021, noting the recurring pattern of malicious social media rumors targeting the commission’s leadership.
“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 the wider society,” the press release warned.
The commission reaffirmed its commitment to combating fake news, pledging to collaborate with genuine media professionals to mitigate the potential societal dangers posed by such malicious narratives.
