By African Heritage Magazine Correspondent
In a heartfelt message of commendation, Hon. (Dr.) Kenneth Chibuogwu Gbandi, former Continental Chairman of Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) Europe, has congratulated Barr. (Mrs.) May Agbamuche-Mbu on her appointment as the Acting National Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Dr. Gbandi described her appointment as a “well-deserved recognition of integrity, professionalism, and years of dedicated service to Nigeria’s democratic process.”
“Her appointment consolidates her place among the great legends of Akwukwu-Igbo, following the distinguished footsteps of her late father, Justice Ashikodi Agbamuche, former Attorney General of Nigeria,” Gbandi remarked.
According to Hon. Gbandi, Barr. Agbamuche-Mbu’s elevation to lead INEC at such a crucial time reflects her proven record of competence and commitment. Since joining the Commission in 2016 as a National Commissioner, she has been widely respected for her meticulous attention to due process, balanced leadership style, and strong sense of duty.
Her tenure has seen her play an instrumental role in electoral administration, policy formulation, and legal oversight. With almost a decade of service within INEC, her appointment symbolizes stability and continuity in an institution central to Nigeria’s democracy.
Gbandi emphasized that the appointment also stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of public service embedded in the Agbamuche family of Akwukwu-Igbo, Delta State. He drew parallels between May Agbamuche-Mbu and her late father, Justice Ashikodi Agbamuche, who served the nation with distinction as Attorney General of Nigeria. “Her ascent to this national role,” Gbandi said, “further consolidates the Agbamuche family’s reputation for excellence, courage, and unwavering dedication to justice and good governance.”
Before her tenure at INEC, Barr. Agbamuche-Mbu’s legal and professional journey had already marked her as one of Nigeria’s finest minds. She earned her LLB from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) in 1984 and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1985. Her quest for global excellence led her to the United Kingdom, where she became a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales and obtained an LLM in Commercial and Corporate Law from Queen Mary and Westfield College, University of London.
She also distinguished herself as Managing Partner at Norfolk Partners, Lagos, and as Editor of THISDAY Lawyer, where her Legal Eagle column shaped public discourse on governance, reform, and the rule of law. Her subsequent service on the Presidential Projects Assessment Committee and the Solid Minerals Road Map Committee reinforced her national impact before her appointment to INEC in 2016.
In his statement, Hon. Gbandi underscored the importance of Barr. Agbamuche-Mbu’s new role, noting that she now carries the responsibility of restoring public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process. “With her impressive pedigree and reformist mindset, Barr. May Agbamuche-Mbu is uniquely positioned to rebrand and strengthen INEC,” he said.
“As compatriots, we must rally behind this no-nonsense and reform-driven leader, who embodies the integrity and discipline required to guide INEC toward greater credibility and transparency.” Gbandi added that her appointment offers hope for the reawakening of institutional trust and public faith in Nigeria’s electoral system.
As an indigene of Akwukwu-Igbo, Hon. Gbandi expressed profound pride in her achievement, describing it as a moment of collective celebration for the people of Delta State and Nigerians in general. “I join our people and all well-meaning Nigerians in celebrating this historic milestone,” he concluded. “Barr. Agbamuche-Mbu represents the values of diligence, discipline, and visionary leadership qualities that can restore INEC’s standing as a truly independent and respected democratic institution.”
Hon. (Dr.) Kenneth Chibuogwu Gbandi is the former Continental Chairman, Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation (NIDO) Europe, Diaspora Affairs & Development Advocate and Delta State Senatorial candidate 2023 election from Akwukwu Igbo
