Civil Group Backs Nomination Of Yakubu As Ambassador

A civil society organisation, the Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa (PAACA) has supported President Bola Tinubu’s nomination of former chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, as a non-career ambassador.

In a statement issued in Abuja, PAACA executive director, Ezenwa Nwagwu, described the nomination as “well considered,” noting that Yakubu’s experience in public service and deep understanding of democratic governance would strengthen Nigeria’s representation abroad.

The group said Yakubu demonstrated “remarkable commitment to institutional reforms, transparency and responsible stewardship” during his time at INEC and expressed confidence that he would bring the same values to his new assignment.

Nwagwu argued that Yakubu led INEC through some of the most complex election cycles in Nigeria’s history, noting that his experience and dedication make him a valuable asset for Nigeria’s diplomatic engagements.

He noted that at the time when Nigeria faced intense global scrutiny, the country required diplomats with administrative experience and global recognition.

The organisation also urged Nigerians to view the nomination through the lens of national interest rather than political speculation.

He said: “Ambassadors serve as representatives of the Nigerian people, not of any administration. What matters is competence, credibility, and the capacity to project Nigeria’s image positively, and Yakubu has demonstrated all three in his decades of service.

“On one hand, we heard claims that Yakubu was removed from office over alleged support for registration of the All Democratic Alliance (ADA); now, the same people are saying he’s being compensated by President Bola Tinubu. Such contradictions show that many of these arguments are not grounded in facts but politically motivated,” he said.

Nwagwu acknowledged that Yakubu’s nomination has generated criticism from some critics who argue that it came too soon after he left office and could potentially raise ethical concerns.

However, the PAACA boss described these concerns as “misplaced” and based on a narrow interpretation of democratic norms and public service.

The organisation noted that the law does not bar former INEC chiefs from taking appointive positions after their tenure.

PAACA urged the Senate to expedite the confirmation process and called on the former INEC boss to use his new role to advance Nigeria’s diplomatic interests.