BREAKING: Mahmood Is Alive And Well – INEC Debunks Death Rumours Of Chairman

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has categorically denied rumors circulating on social media about the alleged death of its chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman, Rotimi Oyekanmi, INEC dismissed the claims as false, emphasizing that Prof. Yakubu is in good health and has not visited London in over two years.

“Our attention has been drawn to a fake news narrative circulated by a section of social media, alleging the death of the INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, at a London hospital. The story, which first surfaced on Monday, December 9, 2024, is completely untrue,” the statement read.

Oyekanmi called on the public to disregard the rumor, noting that Prof. Yakubu was actively involved in official engagements during the week.

He participated in an interactive session with the House of Representatives Committee on Electoral Matters on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, and chaired a meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners the following day, both of which were widely reported in the media.

“This baseless rumor mirrors a similar fake story spread by mischief-makers in 2021. Repeating such falsehoods serves no purpose other than to cause unwarranted panic and distraction,” Oyekanmi added.

INEC further urged individuals and groups involved in propagating such misinformation to consider the societal implications of their actions.

The commission reaffirmed its commitment to working with credible media outlets to counter the spread of fake news and its harmful effects on society.

Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, who has been at the helm of Nigeria’s electoral body, continues to perform his duties as chairman, ensuring the commission’s readiness for its constitutional responsibilities.

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