May Agbamuche-Mbu, a distinguished legal professional, originates from Delta State, Nigeria, although she was born in Kano, where she completed her secondary education at St. Louis Secondary School. She furthered her academic pursuits in law, earning an LLB from the University of Ife (currently known as Obafemi Awolowo University) in 1984.
Subsequent to her admission to the Nigerian Bar in 1985, she expanded her education abroad by qualifying as a Solicitor of the Supreme Court of England and Wales after attending the College of Law in London. Additionally, she obtained an LLM in Commercial and Corporate Law from Queen Mary and Westfield College at the University of London, along with completing postgraduate programs in International Dispute Resolution and International Business Law.
Legal Career and Private Practice
With over three decades of experience in the legal profession, Agbamuche-Mbu has represented a diverse array of clients across both public and private sectors, with a focus on commercial law, corporate law, and alternative dispute resolution. She is a certified arbitrator and a member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (United Kingdom, Nigeria branch), where she has previously held the position of Secretary.
Prior to her engagements in public service, she served as the managing partner at Norfolk Partners, a prominent law firm located in Lagos.
Media and Editorial Contributions
Agbamuche-Mbu has made significant contributions to legal journalism, most notably as the editor of THISDAY LAWYER, a weekly legal supplement of one of Nigeria's leading newspapers. From January 2014 to September 2016, she authored a total of 120 editorials in her column "LEGAL EAGLE," providing insights on public affairs as well as national and international issues. This experience has bolstered her reputation as an authority in legal advocacy and public policy.
Public Service and Government Roles
Agbamuche-Mbu's public service career includes essential appointments within the Nigerian government. Between March 2010 and November 2011, she served as the sole solicitor on the Presidential Projects Assessment Committee (PPAC), where she assessed a national portfolio of significant unfinished public projects. In March 2016, she was appointed to the Ministerial Committee responsible for developing the Road Map for the Solid Minerals Sector.
Role at INEC
Agbamuche-Mbu joined the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as a National Commissioner, where she has distinguished herself as the longest-serving individual in that role. On October 7, 2025, she assumed the position of Acting National Chairman of INEC following the transition from Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who commenced his pre-exit leave in advance of the conclusion of his tenure on November 9, 2025.
Her extensive qualifications in law, dispute resolution, and public service position her adeptly to lead the commission during this transitional phase.