Theliberationnews reports that May Agbamuche-Mbu, a National Commissioner at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has taken over as the acting chairman of the electoral body. Her emergence was consequent upon the formal handover by Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who has proceeded on terminal leave after leading the commission since 2015.

Her appointment comes as preparations for the 2027 general elections begin to take shape. Here are some important facts about the new INEC boss:

1. Over Three Decades of Legal Experience

Agbamuche-Mbu is a lawyer with more than 30 years of professional practice, bringing a rich background in law and governance to her new role.

2. Delta Roots, Kano Upbringing

Although she hails from Delta State, she spent much of her early life in Kano. She attended St. Louis Secondary School before moving on to the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University).

3. Early Legal Training

She obtained her LLB in 1984 and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1985. She later qualified as a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales, a step that expanded her international legal credentials.

4. Advanced International Degrees

Agbamuche-Mbu holds an LLM in Commercial and Corporate Law from Queen Mary and Westfield College, University of London. She also pursued postgraduate studies in International Dispute Resolution and International Business Law.

5. Arbitration Expertise

She is a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK), Nigeria Branch, where she once served as secretary. This highlights her strong reputation in Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR).

6. Law Firm Leadership and Legal Journalism

Before joining INEC, she ran her own law firm, Norfolk Partners. She was also active in legal journalism, serving as Editor of THISDAY LAWYER and writing the widely followed “LEGAL EAGLE” column between 2014 and 2016.

7. National Committee Service

Her public service experience includes membership of the Presidential Projects Assessment Committee (2010–2011) and the Ministerial Committee that drafted Nigeria’s Solid Minerals Roadmap in 2016.

8. INEC Commissioner to Acting Chair

Having served as a national commissioner at INEC for years, her elevation to acting chairman is widely viewed as a move to ensure continuity and stability within the commission’s leadership.