The nomination of Professor Mahmood Yakubu, the immediate past Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), as an ambassador by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sparked controversy among some politicians and pundits. Yakubu’s distinguished career in public service, having served under four Nigerian presidents, and his recent departure from INEC, have raised concerns about the timing and implications of his nomination.

Critics argue that Yakubu’s nomination may compromise the independence and impartiality of INEC, and that it may be seen as a reward for his role in the 2023 presidential election. However, a review of the law and the context of Yakubu’s nomination suggests that these concerns may be misplaced. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC Establishment) Act 2004, which established INEC, initially included a provision requiring a five-year “cooling off” period for INEC members before they could hold elective office. However, this provision was repealed in the Electoral Act 2010, as it was deemed to be in conflict with the Constitution, which guarantees the rights of all Nigerians to stand for elected office.

Furthermore, the idea that a cooling-off period is necessary to maintain the independence and impartiality of INEC is not supported by the law or by international best practices. In many countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and France, it is common for officials to move from leadership or membership of election management commissions to other roles in government without a significant time lag. For instance, in the United States, the Secretary of State, who is responsible for overseeing elections, is often a member of a political party.

In the Nigerian context, an ambassadorship is not typically considered a reward or a promotion, but rather a form of public service. Yakubu’s nomination should be seen as a renewed call to public service, rather than a reward for his past role. His career as a public servant, including his time as head of the Tertiary Education Fund (TETFUND) and his leadership of INEC, has been marked by innovation and a commitment to serving the country.

The controversy surrounding Yakubu’s nomination reflects a deeper misunderstanding of democracy and public service in Nigeria. Rather than imposing unrealistic expectations on individuals and institutions, Nigerians should focus on building strong institutions and promoting a culture of public service. The nomination of Professor Yakubu as an ambassador is a normal practice in many democracies and should be viewed as a positive development, rather than a cause for concern. As Nigeria continues to develop its democratic institutions, it is essential to recognize the value of public service and the importance of allowing qualified individuals to serve the country in various capacities.