By Ademuyiwa Balikis
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has questioned the inclusion of former Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, in President Bola Tinubu’s new list of ambassadorial nominees. The party said the appointment sends a troubling signal about how the administration rewards public office holders whose stewardship remains a subject of national debate.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, the PDP argued that Yakubu’s nomination cannot be separated from the controversies that surrounded the conduct of the last electoral cycle. According to the party, the administration of the electoral process under his leadership was marked by inconsistencies and broken assurances that contributed significantly to public distrust in the system.
The PDP maintained that elevating the former electoral chief to an ambassadorial position at this moment could be interpreted as an endorsement of actions that many Nigerians believe weakened the credibility of the electoral institution. It described the move as an illustration of a governance culture where politically convenient conduct is rewarded rather than scrutinised.
The party further suggested that Yakubu’s nomination could influence perceptions of future electoral planning, particularly as the country approaches another election year. It warned that such appointments risk reinforcing fears that the independence of electoral institutions may be compromised by post tenure political compensations.
The PDP insisted that Nigeria’s diplomatic service should be reserved for individuals whose careers reflect transparency, fairness, and public trust, qualities it claims were eroded during Yakubu’s tenure. It urged the President to reconsider the nomination and prioritise Nigerians with unimpeachable records who can enhance the country’s global image.
