Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed his disapproval of President Bola Tinubu’s decision to nominate Mahmood Yakubu, the former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), for an ambassadorial position. Atiku stated that, if he were president, he would never consider such an appointment.
In a statement on social media, Atiku emphasized that Yakubu’s nomination raises serious concerns, suggesting it might be seen as a political favor rather than a merit-based decision. He criticized the optics of the situation, pointing out that it undermines the administration’s credibility.
Atiku articulated that rewarding an electoral officer involved in one of Nigeria’s most contentious elections could send a negative message to both the current INEC leadership and the public. He characterized the nomination as “morally indefensible” and warned that it would not contribute to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy or restoring trust in its institutions.
President Tinubu’s nomination is pending legislative approval, drawing further scrutiny and debate within the political landscape.
