President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, to immediately proceed on leave. The directive, according to reports, is expected to pave the way for a temporary replacement while discussions about the leadership of the commission continue.

The decision has stirred political interest across the country, with observers linking it to ongoing debates about electoral reforms and preparations ahead of future elections. While the presidency has not given a detailed explanation for the move, it has generated conversations on what it means for the credibility and independence of INEC moving forward.

Political analysts say the development may trigger fresh debates on the balance between government authority and the autonomy of electoral institutions in Nigeria.