Rotimi Oyekanmi Debunks ‘Funeral Song’ Report, Calls It Hatred-Driven Disinformation

Rotimi Oyekanmi, former Chief Press Secretary to the immediate past Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, has dismissed reports alleging that staff of the Commission sang a funeral song for his ex-boss.

In a statement released on Thursday in Abuja, Oyekanmi described the claim as a false and malicious piece of disinformation fabricated by “haters masquerading as journalists.”

He said the farewell event at the INEC headquarters was, in fact, a heartfelt display of love and appreciation by staff for Prof. Yakubu, who officially bowed out on Tuesday after years of service.

“The visible show of love and respect displayed by appreciative INEC staff as the departing former INEC Chairman, Yakubu, walked to his car is now being intentionally misinterpreted and misrepresented as a ‘funeral song,’” Oyekanmi said.

He accused Sahara Reporters of twisting the narrative, saying the platform “has failed and will continue to fail” in its attempts to smear Yakubu’s image.

According to Oyekanmi, INEC staff have consistently expressed admiration for Yakubu’s leadership, citing his transformative policies that enhanced promotions, allowances, and capacity development across all staff levels.

He stressed that journalism should remain anchored on truth, facts, and accuracy — not used as a tool for character assassination.

“Prof. Yakubu’s place in history is assured, no matter the lies being spread by familiar forces,” he declared.

Yakubu has since handed over to May Agbamuche-Mbu, the most senior National Commissioner, who now serves as Acting INEC Chairman pending the appointment of a substantive successor.