Rotimi Oyekanmi, former Chief Press Secretary to the immediate past Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, has dismissed media reports claiming that commission staff sang a “dirge” as Yakubu exited office.

Oyekanmi, in a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday, said staff of the commission were actually singing a farewell praise song, not a funeral chant, as alleged by Sahara Reporters.

He described the report as false and malicious, accusing the platform of deliberately misrepresenting a clear show of affection by INEC employees.

 “This deliberate piece of disinformation can only be conjured by a set of haters masquerading as journalists at Sahara Reporters. But they have failed and will continue to fail,” Oyekanmi said.

According to him, the staff’s action reflected genuine appreciation for Yakubu’s transformative leadership, which led to improved welfare, promotions, and training opportunities during his decade-long tenure.

Oyekanmi urged Sahara Reporters to exercise journalistic responsibility, saying,

 “Journalism is about facts, accuracy and truthfulness, not a vehicle to be misused by pseudo-journalists to embark on a campaign of calumny against individuals.”

He added that Yakubu’s legacy at INEC “remains secure” despite attempts to discredit him.

Yakubu officially bowed out as INEC Chairman on Tuesday, handing over to Mrs. May Agbamuche-Mbu, the most senior National Commissioner, who now serves as Acting Chairman pending a substantive appointment.

Appointed in 2015 and reappointed in 2020 by former President Muhammadu Buhari, Yakubu said his departure was to allow for a smooth transition ahead of future elections.

During a farewell ceremony at the INEC headquarters, staff members sang in his honour, while earlier in the week, the commission presented him with an “Excellence Service Delivery Award” during the 2025 Customer Service Week celebration.