Following the exit of Professor Mahmood Yakubu, legal expert and long-serving commissioner May Agbamuche-Mbu has been appointed as the Acting Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)—the top electoral body in Nigeria.

Her appointment, announced on Tuesday during a meeting at INEC headquarters in Abuja, comes as Yakubu proceeds on terminal leave ahead of the official end of his second term. Citing Section 306 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), Yakubu said his decision was aimed at ensuring a smooth leadership transition as INEC prepares for upcoming electoral activities.

Agbamuche-Mbu, the most senior National Commissioner by date of appointment, will hold the position in an acting capacity until a substantive chairman is nominated by President Bola Tinubu and confirmed by the Senate.

As the nation turns its attention to this new phase in Nigeria’s electoral leadership, here are 10 important things to know about May Agbamuche-Mbu, INEC’s new Acting Chairman:

1. She is a veteran legal practitioner with over 30 years of experience

Agbamuche-Mbu has built a stellar legal career spanning more than three decades, working in both public and private sectors in Nigeria and internationally. Her expertise includes corporate law, arbitration, and regulatory compliance.

2. She hails from Delta State but grew up in Kano

Though of Delta State origin, she was born and raised in Kano, where she attended the prestigious St. Louis Secondary School—an institution known for producing many of Nigeria’s accomplished women professionals.

3. Law graduate from Obafemi Awolowo University

She earned her LLB in 1984 from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), one of Nigeria’s most respected universities for legal studies.

4. Called to the Bar in both Nigeria and the United Kingdom

Agbamuche-Mbu was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1985 and later qualified as a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales, giving her dual jurisdictional legal expertise.

5. Holds multiple advanced degrees in law from the UK

She obtained an LL.M in Commercial and Corporate Law from Queen Mary and Westfield College, University of London, and later pursued postgraduate studies in International Dispute Resolution and International Business Law.

6. A certified expert in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

She is a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK), Nigeria Branch, where she previously served as Secretary. Her ADR background highlights her capacity for conflict resolution and negotiation.

7. Played key roles in national policy and governance committees

From 2010 to 2011, she served as the sole solicitor on the Presidential Projects Assessment Committee (PPAC), which reviewed abandoned federal projects. In 2016, she was part of the Ministerial Committee that developed the Roadmap for Nigeria’s Solid Minerals Sector.

8. Former Managing Partner of Norfolk Partners, Lagos

Before joining INEC, Agbamuche-Mbu led Norfolk Partners, a Lagos-based law firm where she specialized in corporate legal services and mentored young legal professionals.

9. Contributor to legal journalism and public policy

She was the Editor of ThisDay LAWYER, the legal pullout of ThisDay Newspaper, and wrote the influential “Legal Eagle” column from 2014 to 2016, publishing over 120 legal editorials that impacted national legal discourse and public policy.

10. Brings integrity, intellect, and institutional experience to INEC leadership

As one of INEC’s longest-serving National Commissioners, Agbamuche-Mbu’s appointment is seen as a move to ensure stability and continuity in the Commission. Her record reflects a commitment to electoral reform, institutional transparency, and democratic governance.

What’s Next for INEC Under Agbamuche-Mbu?

With her at the helm, INEC will be expected to maintain momentum in electoral reforms, digital innovation, and preparation for the 2027 general elections. Her leadership will also be closely watched in managing off-cycle elections and legal challenges that lie ahead.