BREAKING: INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, Debunks Death Rumors, Confirms He’s Alive

INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, has debunked rumors of his death, confirming that he is alive and well. This comes after reports circulated on social media, claiming he had passed away at a London hospital due to an illness.

According to a statement released by Rotimi Oyekanmi, Yakubu’s Chief Press Secretary, the INEC Chairman described the rumors as “fake news narrative” that first emerged on Monday, December 9, 2024.

It’s worth noting that this isn’t the first time Yakubu has been targeted by death hoaxes. A similar rumor emerged in 2021, which was also debunked.

“We hereby appeal to the public to disregard the rumour. Prof. Yakubu is alive, hale and hearty. In fact, he has not travelled to London in the last two years.”

The statement said that Yakubu was present at an interactive meeting with the House of Representatives Committee on Electoral Matters on Wednesday, 11th December 2024.

He also chaired the Commission’s meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners on Thursday, 12th December 2024.

Both events were widely covered on television and reported on the front pages of most newspapers on Friday 13 December 2024, the statement said.

“The public may recall that mischief-makers on the social media carried a similar fake story in 2021. Three years later, they are spreading the same rumour again.

“Those who indulge in this practice, as well as those who spread it, should be mindful of its effect not only on the individual but also the wider society.

“The Commission will continue to work with genuine media professionals to combat the scourge of fake news and the danger it poses to society,” he said.