INEC Chairman Alive and Well, Commission Dismisses Death Rumors
Abuja, Nigeria – The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has unequivocally refuted recent reports circulating on social media claiming the demise of its Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu. In a statement released on Saturday, Rotimi Oyekanmi, Secretary to the INEC Chairman, confirmed that Professor Yakubu is "alive, hale, and hearty," denouncing the rumors as entirely baseless and malicious. The commission expressed concern over the persistence of such misinformation and urged the public to disregard the false narrative.
The fake news, which first surfaced on Monday, December 9th, alleged that Professor Yakubu had passed away in a London hospital. This fabricated story quickly gained traction on various social media platforms, causing unnecessary alarm and confusion among the public. INEC swiftly responded to the rumors, emphasizing the Chairman’s active engagement in official duties throughout the week. Oyekanmi highlighted Professor Yakubu’s participation in a meeting with the House of Representatives Committee on Electoral Matters on Wednesday, December 11th, and his subsequent chairing of a meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners on Thursday, December 12th. Both events were widely publicized and reported by reputable media outlets, further debunking the false claims.
This is not the first time Professor Yakubu has been targeted by such malicious rumors. A similar false story circulated in 2021, demonstrating a recurring pattern of misinformation campaigns aimed at discrediting the INEC Chairman and potentially disrupting the electoral process. The commission expressed its dismay at the persistence of these baseless allegations and called on those responsible to consider the detrimental impact of spreading fake news on individuals and society as a whole. The emotional distress caused to family members and the erosion of public trust in institutions are significant consequences that cannot be ignored.
INEC reiterated its commitment to combating the spread of fake news and misinformation, recognizing the potential for such narratives to undermine the integrity of the electoral process and create unnecessary anxiety among the electorate. The commission emphasized the importance of relying on credible sources of information and urged the public to exercise caution when encountering unverified news online. INEC pledged to continue working closely with genuine media professionals to ensure accurate and timely dissemination of information regarding electoral matters.
The commission also highlighted the importance of media literacy in combating the spread of fake news. Citizens are encouraged to critically evaluate information encountered online, verify sources, and be wary of sensationalized headlines designed to attract clicks rather than convey accurate information. By promoting media literacy, INEC aims to empower individuals to discern credible information from fabricated narratives and contribute to a more informed and responsible online environment.
INEC’s proactive response to the false reports demonstrates its commitment to transparency and accountability. By swiftly addressing the rumors and providing verifiable evidence of Professor Yakubu’s well-being, the commission has effectively countered the spread of misinformation and reassured the public of its commitment to conducting free, fair, and credible elections. INEC’s continued efforts to combat fake news are crucial in maintaining public trust and ensuring the integrity of the electoral process in Nigeria. The commission’s call for responsible online behavior and its emphasis on media literacy serve as important reminders of the collective responsibility in combating the spread of misinformation.