Explosive Revelation: Jega Blames Terrible Elections On Predecessors At INEC

Former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Attahiru Jega, has thrown his weight behind the continued use of university professors in Nigeria’s electoral process, praising them as strongholds of integrity who have consistently resisted bribery and political pressure.

Speaking at The Platform, a Democracy Day event hosted by Covenant Nation in Lagos to mark June 12, Jega emphasized that while there have been a few instances of academic misconduct during elections, such cases are rare and should not tarnish the reputation of the vast majority who serve with honesty and professionalism.

Jega, a renowned political scientist and former Vice-Chancellor of Bayero University, Kano, introduced the use of professors and vice-chancellors as returning officers and ad hoc electoral officials during his tenure from 2010 to 2015. He explained that the decision was made to enhance the credibility of the electoral process and rebuild public trust in the system.

Currently serving as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Council at Sa’adatu Rimi University of Education, Kano, and a member of the International Elections Advisory Council, Jega remains a vocal advocate for electoral integrity and institutional reform.

“In 2010, when I joined INEC, the electoral process was in a very poor state,” Jega said. “Fortunately, as a co-chairman of the Committee of Vice Chancellors, I was able to tap into the university system and bring in credible academic staff through a transparent selection process.”

He continued: “By 2011, when organizations like the Nigerian Bar Association and Nigerian Society of Engineers offered to assist, we decided to retain the professors because the approach had proven effective. Why change what’s working?”

Jega noted that many of the professors involved, particularly vice-chancellors with long academic careers, would be unlikely to compromise their reputations so close to retirement.

“Only about two professors have ever been prosecuted for electoral offenses. Statistically, that’s negligible. While any form of misconduct is regrettable, it does not justify abandoning a system that has largely delivered integrity and professionalism.”

He acknowledged the intense pressure politicians often exert, but reaffirmed that professors remain one of the most trustworthy groups in managing elections in Nigeria.