May Agbamuche-Mbu, a respected lawyer and public servant, has risen to become the Acting Chairman of Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Known for her quiet strength, legal brilliance, and commitment to credible elections, she represents a new face of leadership in Nigeria’s democratic space. Let’s take a closer look at some key facts about her journey.
1. Early Life and Education
May Agbamuche-Mbu hails from Delta State but was born and raised partly in Kano State, where she attended St. Louis Secondary School. She obtained her Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) in 1984 and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1985.
2. Advanced Legal Training Abroad
Beyond her Nigerian qualification, she pursued an LL.M in Commercial and Corporate Law at Queen Mary & Westfield College, University of London. She later qualified as a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales, adding international depth to her professional profile.
3. A Distinguished Legal Career
Before joining INEC, Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu was the Managing Partner of Norfolk Partners, a Lagos-based law firm specializing in corporate and commercial law. Her experience spans company law, energy, arbitration, and dispute resolution.
4. Leadership in Arbitration and Dispute Resolution
She is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (UK), Nigeria Branch, where she once served as Secretary. Her work in Alternative Dispute Resolution has contributed to strengthening mediation and arbitration practices in Nigeria’s legal system.
5. Public Service Contributions
From 2010 to 2011, she served as the sole solicitor on the Presidential Projects Assessment Committee (PPAC), which evaluated hundreds of abandoned government projects nationwide. She was also a member of the 2016 Ministerial Committee that produced a roadmap for Nigeria’s Solid Minerals Sector.
6. A Passion for Legal Writing
Between 2014 and 2016, she edited the THISDAY Lawyer pull-out and wrote over 120 columns under her “Legal Eagle” series. Her writing offered sharp legal insight into governance, accountability, and the rule of law.
7. Appointment to INEC
May Agbamuche-Mbu was appointed National Commissioner of INEC in 2017, representing Delta State. Over the years, she has supervised elections in critical zones including Edo, Rivers, and Bayelsa States, ensuring transparency and professionalism.
8. Becoming INEC’s Acting Chairperson
In October 2025, following the temporary vacancy of the commission’s top seat, she assumed duty as Acting Chairperson—being the most senior National Commissioner. Her elevation reflects INEC’s internal succession protocol and her reputation for integrity.
9. A Trailblazer for Women in Leadership
Her rise adds to the growing list of Nigerian women breaking barriers in governance. As Acting Chairperson, she symbolizes competence and balance in a male-dominated electoral environment.
10. Advocate of Integrity and Inclusion
May Agbamuche-Mbu is widely regarded as a voice for fairness, inclusion, and transparency in Nigeria’s democratic process. Her calm demeanor and adherence to due process continue to inspire confidence among election stakeholders.
Bonus Fact: A Commitment to Reform
Beyond her current role, Mrs. Agbamuche-Mbu has consistently emphasized the need for continuous electoral reform, civic education, and youth participation—key elements for strengthening democracy in Nigeria.
May Agbamuche-Mbu’s journey from the courtroom to the commission’s top office tells a story of diligence, professionalism, and purpose. As she leads INEC through this period, all eyes are on her to maintain the commission’s independence and credibility.