8 Things To Know About New INEC Acting Chair May Agbamuche-Mbu

8 Things To Know About New INEC Acting Chair May Agbamuche-Mbu

Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has appointed Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu as Acting Chair following the end of Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s tenure. Here are eight key things to know about the new acting head of the electoral body.

1. A Seasoned Legal Practitioner

Agbamuche-Mbu is an accomplished lawyer with more than 30 years of experience, working across public and private sectors in Nigeria and abroad.

2. Educational Background

Born in Kano and from Delta State, she attended St. Louis Secondary School, earned her LLB from the University of Ife (now OAU), and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1985. She later became a Solicitor in England and Wales and holds a Master’s degree in Commercial and Corporate Law from Queen Mary University of London.

3. Dispute Resolution Expertise

She’s a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK/Nigeria) and specializes in alternative dispute resolution — a skill vital for managing election-related legal issues.

4. Public Service Record

Between 2010 and 2011, she worked as Sole Solicitor to the Presidential Projects Assessment Committee (PPAC). She also served on a Ministerial Committee that created a roadmap for Nigeria’s solid minerals sector in 2016.

5. Media and Legal Writing

Before joining INEC, Agbamuche-Mbu was an editor with ThisDay Lawyer and wrote a weekly column, “Legal Eagle,” where she discussed national legal issues and reforms.

6. INEC National Commissioner

She has served as INEC National Commissioner representing Delta State (South-South) and chaired the Legal Services, Clearance, and Complaints Committee of the Commission.

7. Leadership in Electoral Processes

Her role has included overseeing party candidate nominations, election petitions, and voter education. She is known for promoting transparency and the use of technology in elections.

8. Now Acting Chair of INEC

With her legal background and administrative experience, Agbamuche-Mbu steps into the role of Acting Chair to continue INEC’s work in improving Nigeria’s electoral integrity and public trust.