Rotimi Oyekanmi, former Chief Press Secretary to ex-INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, has come out swinging against a viral report claiming staff of the electoral commission sang a funeral dirge to mock Yakubu’s exit from office.
In a sharp rebuttal issued from Abuja, Oyekanmi described the claim as “pure mischief” peddled by what he called “haters masquerading as journalists,” insisting the scene at INEC headquarters was one of praise and appreciation; not mourning.
The false narrative, which first surfaced on Sahara Reporters, painted Yakubu’s farewell as a gloomy send-off. But Oyekanmi says that’s far from the truth.
“The visible show of love and respect displayed by the appreciative INEC staff… is now being misrepresented as a funeral song. This is deliberate disinformation,” he said.
He went on to defend Yakubu’s legacy, highlighting how the former chairman championed promotions, increased staff allowances, and pushed several reform initiatives that earned him genuine goodwill within the commission.
Prof. Mahmood Yakubu officially stepped down this week, ending his nearly 10-year run as INEC Chairman. His tenure; beginning in 2015 and renewed in 2020, was marked by high-stakes elections and significant electoral reforms.
He handed over to Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, the most senior INEC National Commissioner, who will serve as acting chair pending a new appointment by President Bola Tinubu.
Just days before stepping down, Yakubu was honoured with an Excellence Service Delivery Award during the commission’s 2025 Customer Service Week.
Oyekanmi insists that the exit was not just orderly, but emotional for many INEC staff.
“Prof. Yakubu’s place in history is assured, no matter the lies being spread,” he said.
