Deji Adeleke, the President of Adeleke University and a prominent Nigerian businessman, has argued that holding the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) solely responsible for election rigging is unfair, insisting that electoral malpractice often involves several actors beyond the commission’s leadership.
Speaking during the 12th undergraduate and eighth postgraduate convocation ceremonies at Adeleke University in Ede, Osun State, Adeleke called for collective responsibility in protecting Nigeria’s democratic process and ensuring elections reflect the true will of the people.
Electoral Integrity Requires Collective Responsibility
According to Deji Adeleke, achieving credible elections cannot rest on the shoulders of one individual, regardless of the office he occupies.
He explained that while the INEC Chairman oversees the nation’s electoral system, the actual conduct of elections takes place across thousands of polling units where other officials play direct roles.
He stressed that safeguarding electoral integrity requires honesty and accountability from every participant involved in the election process.
Concerns Over Polling Unit Manipulation
During his address, Adeleke alleged that some election officials deployed to polling units compromise the credibility of elections by accepting financial inducements to alter results.
He claimed that certain members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) assigned to election duties, alongside some security personnel, sometimes become part of activities that undermine the voting process.
To illustrate his point, he questioned how any INEC Chairman could personally supervise every polling unit across the country during an election.
In a rephrased remark, he suggested that expecting one official to monitor thousands of polling centres simultaneously is unrealistic, adding that the success of elections ultimately depends on the integrity of those working at the grassroots level.
Osun Election Used as an Example
Looking ahead to the forthcoming Osun State governorship election, Deji Adeleke noted that the state alone has 3,763 polling units, making direct supervision by the INEC Chairman practically impossible.
He argued that election officials stationed at polling centres carry enormous responsibility because they are entrusted with recording and transmitting the genuine choices made by voters.
According to him, any attempt by polling officials to manipulate figures weakens public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
Violence During Elections Remains a Major Concern
Beyond allegations of result manipulation, Adeleke expressed concern over the recurring violence that accompanies elections in parts of the country.
He lamented that political contests have often resulted in the loss of lives, including young Nigerians who could have contributed positively to national development.
He maintained that no democratic process should cost citizens their lives, emphasizing that peaceful elections are essential for national stability and sustainable development.
Nigeria’s International Reputation at Stake
According to Gossip News Now reports that, Deji Adeleke warned that persistent electoral malpractice could continue to damage Nigeria’s global image.
He argued that despite the country’s abundant human talent and potential, repeated reports of election irregularities create negative perceptions internationally.
He also expressed concern that actions taken on election day, as well as judicial decisions that fail to uphold justice where necessary, could have long-term consequences for public trust in democratic institutions.
Nevertheless, he encouraged Nigerians not to lose hope, insisting that meaningful reforms remain achievable if citizens and institutions commit themselves to transparency and accountability.
Call for Electoral Reforms and Civic Responsibility
The businessman urged all stakeholders—including election officials, security agencies, political actors, judicial officers and voters—to contribute toward strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.
He maintained that restoring confidence in elections requires ethical conduct, respect for the rule of law and a shared determination to protect the integrity of every vote.
Commentary and Analysis
The remarks by Deji Adeleke highlight a long-standing debate about where responsibility for credible elections should lie.
While the INEC Chairman provides national leadership and oversight, the practical conduct of elections depends on thousands of officials deployed across polling units nationwide. This reality underscores the importance of proper recruitment, training, monitoring and accountability for election personnel at every level.
His comments also reinforce the broader argument that electoral reform extends beyond institutional leadership and requires cooperation among electoral officials, security agencies, political parties, the judiciary and the electorate.
Key Takeaways
- Deji Adeleke says the INEC Chairman alone should not be blamed for election rigging.
- He argues that malpractice often occurs at polling units through the actions of some election officials and security personnel.
- Adeleke used Osun State’s more than 3,700 polling units to illustrate the challenge of direct supervision.
- He warned that election violence and manipulation continue to affect Nigeria’s democratic development and international reputation.
- The businessman called for collective responsibility and stronger commitment to credible elections from all stakeholders.
Questions for Readers
- Do you agree that election integrity depends more on polling officials than on the INEC Chairman?
- What practical measures should Nigeria adopt to reduce election malpractice at polling units?
- Should stricter penalties be introduced for election officials and security personnel found guilty of electoral misconduct?
Share your thoughts in the comments section below. Your opinions are important in promoting meaningful conversations about electoral reforms, democratic accountability and the future of free and fair elections in Nigeria.
