All About INEC’s New Acting Chairman, May Agbamuche-Mbu

Nigeria’s political landscape has entered a new chapter following the resignation of Professor Mahmood Yakubu as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). 

Stepping into his position in an acting capacity is Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, a name that might sound familiar to those who closely follow Nigeria’s democratic process.

Her appointment was reached through a consensus among INEC’s National Commissioners, making her the most senior member now at the helm of the Commission. 

As INEC prepares for another busy electoral period, her leadership is expected to ensure continuity and stability within the institution. Here’s what you should know about the new Acting Chairman, May Agbamuche-Mbu.

A Legal Practitioner with Over 30 Years of Experience

May Agbamuche-Mbu is not new to leadership or the law. She has spent more than three decades building a respected career as a lawyer, advising clients in both the public and private sectors across Nigeria and abroad. 

Her long-standing career reflects deep knowledge of governance and institutional law.

From Delta, Raised in Kano

Although her family hails from Delta State, May’s early life was rooted in Kano, where she attended St. Louis Secondary School, one of Nigeria’s renowned all-girls institutions known for producing accomplished professionals. Her upbringing in northern Nigeria gave her a broad national outlook.

A Proud Graduate of Obafemi Awolowo University

May earned her Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree in 1984 from the University of Ife, now known as Obafemi Awolowo University. The school is famous for producing some of Nigeria’s brightest legal and political minds.

Qualified in Both Nigeria and the UK

She was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1985 and later became a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales. This dual qualification underlines her strong international legal background and global perspective on governance and justice.

Holder of Advanced Degrees from Top UK Universities

May Agbamuche-Mbu holds an LLM in Commercial and Corporate Law from Queen Mary and Westfield College, University of London. She also completed postgraduate studies in International Dispute Resolution and International Business Law — credentials that strengthen her reputation as an expert in complex legal systems.

Expert in Dispute Resolution

As a member and former Secretary of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK), Nigeria Branch, she has extensive experience in arbitration and mediation. Her calm, fair-minded approach to resolving conflicts has been one of her defining professional qualities.

Served on Key National Committees

May’s expertise has been recognized by successive governments. She served as the sole solicitor on the Presidential Projects Assessment Committee between 2010 and 2011, overseeing the evaluation of incomplete public projects nationwide. 

She also played a role in shaping the Road Map for Nigeria’s Solid Minerals Sector in 2016 as part of a ministerial committee.

Leadership at Norfolk Partners

Before joining INEC, May was the Managing Partner at Norfolk Partners, a Lagos-based law firm known for handling high-profile corporate legal cases. There, she not only managed complex legal projects but also mentored many young lawyers.

A Voice in Legal Journalism

Beyond the courtroom, she made her mark as a writer and editor. She once served as the Editor of THISDAY LAWYER and authored the “Legal Eagle” column between 2014 and 2016. Through over 120 published articles, she used her voice to shape public understanding of the law and governance in Nigeria.

A Symbol of Integrity and Continuity at INEC

May Agbamuche-Mbu has served as an INEC National Commissioner for years, known for her diligence and commitment to fairness. 

As she takes over leadership of the Commission, many observers believe her experience, intellect, and sense of integrity will guide INEC through another crucial phase in Nigeria’s democratic journey.