Samuel Omang
A seasoned legal expert and National Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), May Agbamuche-Mbu, has assumed the role of Acting Chairman of the commission. She takes over following Professor Mahmood Yakubu’s move to terminal leave.
The formal handover took place on Tuesday at INEC headquarters in Abuja, during a stakeholders’ meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners. Agbamuche-Mbu’s appointment is seen as a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s electoral body, particularly as it prepares for upcoming elections and continues implementing reforms aimed at strengthening democracy.
Background and Education
Born in Kano and originally from Delta State, Agbamuche-Mbu embodies a blend of northern and southern influences, shaping her broad outlook on national unity and governance. She attended St. Louis Secondary School, Kano, before earning her LLB from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) in 1984. Called to the Nigerian Bar in 1985, she later qualified as a solicitor in England and Wales and earned a Master’s in Commercial and Corporate Law from Queen Mary and Westfield College, University of London, along with postgraduate certifications in International Dispute Resolution and International Business Law.
Professional Experience
Agbamuche-Mbu brings over 30 years of experience in legal practice, having advised public and private sector clients. Prior to INEC, she was Managing Partner at Norfolk Partners, Lagos. She also served on high-profile committees, including the Presidential Projects Assessment Committee (2010–2011) and the Ministerial Committee for the Roadmap of the Solid Minerals Sector (2016).
Role in INEC and Legal Contributions
Confirmed as a National Commissioner in 2016, Agbamuche-Mbu has been instrumental in legal and policy reforms within the commission. A certified arbitrator and former Secretary of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (Nigeria), she also authored the popular “Legal Eagle” column in THISDAY LAWYER, influencing discussions on law and governance.
Personal Life
Agbamuche-Mbu maintains a low public profile, with little information available about her family. Her professional achievements, however, have earned her widespread respect in Nigeria’s legal and governance circles.
Her elevation to Acting Chairman comes at a critical period for INEC, as Nigeria gears up for elections and seeks to consolidate electoral credibility.