The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has firmly denied the widespread social media rumors alleging the death of its Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu. The unfounded reports, which surfaced on Monday, December 9, 2024, claimed that Yakubu had died while receiving treatment in a London hospital.
In a statement released on Saturday, Rotimi Oyekanmi, the Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, urged Nigerians to dismiss the baseless claims. “Prof. Mahmood Yakubu is alive, healthy, and in good condition,” Oyekanmi assured, reinforcing that the false reports should not be taken seriously.
The viral rumors sparked confusion and concern across various online platforms before the clarification from INEC put the matter to rest. The electoral body called on the public to be wary of misinformation and avoid spreading unverified news.
This incident underscores the growing challenge of combating fake news, particularly regarding high-profile public figures.
