Adedeji Adeleke has warned that electoral malpractice is discouraging foreign investment in Nigeria, urging stakeholders to protect the integrity of the country’s electoral process to boost investor confidence and strengthen democracy.

The prominent businessman and Chancellor of Adeleke University made the remarks on Sunday during the institution’s 12th Convocation Ceremony in Ede, Osun State, where 1,375 students graduated.

According to Adeleke, credible elections remain a critical factor considered by international investors before committing capital to any country. He noted that Nigeria risks missing out on significant investment opportunities if confidence in its democratic process continues to decline.

He explained that transparent elections not only strengthen democratic institutions but also create an enabling environment for economic growth, job creation and sustainable national development.

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Speaking ahead of the forthcoming Osun State governorship election, Adeleke appealed to officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), ad hoc personnel and other stakeholders to carry out their responsibilities with honesty and professionalism.

He observed that INEC relies heavily on thousands of temporary election officials, including members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), to conduct elections across the country.

Using Osun State as an example, Adeleke noted that the state has 3,763 polling units, making it impossible for the INEC Chairman to personally supervise every polling station.

According to him, the credibility of elections ultimately depends on the integrity of those deployed to manage the voting process.

“We are going to have an election in Osun State very soon. Osun State has 3,763 polling units. Is it humanly possible for the INEC chairman to be at all those polling units at the same time? They have entrusted the process to young people. Nigeria will continue to regret it if things do not change, but it is never too late for us to make the necessary changes,” Adeleke said.

He urged all participants in the electoral process to conduct themselves responsibly to strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s democracy and improve the country’s international image.

Adeleke University Produces 190 First-Class Graduates

Earlier, the Vice-Chancellor of Adeleke University, Professor Solomon Adebola, announced that a total of 1,375 students graduated during the university’s 12th convocation ceremony.

He disclosed that 1,211 students received undergraduate degrees, while 164 students completed various postgraduate programmes.

Breaking down the results, the Vice-Chancellor said 190 graduates earned First Class honours, 655 obtained Second Class Upper Division, 337 graduated with Second Class Lower Division, while 29 students earned Third Class honours.

Professor Adebola congratulated the graduating students for their academic excellence and encouraged them to remain committed to integrity, innovation and service as they pursue their careers.

The convocation ceremony attracted dignitaries, academics, parents and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate the achievements of the graduating class and the university’s continued commitment to academic excellence.