OAU Students Battle For Leadership Positions As 2nd Semester Begins
- By AbdulFattah Robiu
As students of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, return for the second half of the 2023/2024 academic session, the campus is already witnessing a surge in political activities, with aspirants jostling for leadership positions across various structures.
The resumption on Sunday, 23rd March, marked the beginning of intense politicking as students from different faculties and halls of residence began to throw their hats into the ring for the upcoming elections.
From the revered Students’ Union Government (SUG) to Faculty and Departmental Associations, the race for leadership is gathering momentum.
Positions up for grabs in the SUG include key offices within the Central Executive Council (CEC) — the Students’ Union President, Vice President, General Secretary, Financial Secretary, Public Relations Officer (PRO), Welfare Officer, and Sports Director.
Each position holds significant influence in addressing student affairs and fostering a better academic environment.
Beyond the executive arm, the Students’ Representative Council (SRC) is also witnessing fierce competition.
Eager candidates are vying for the roles of Senators and Honourables, where they can represent the interests of their constituencies. Similarly, the Hall Executive Council (HEC) elections are heating up, with hopefuls rallying for votes to lead their respective halls of residence.
At the grassroots level, faculties and departments are not left out, as aspiring leaders are mounting campaigns to control the administration of their academic units.
From campaign posters to social media engagements and manifesto presentations, the campus is buzzing with political energy.
Speaking with Osun Defender, Akinni Miftau, a student leader from the Department of Religious Studies, stressed the importance of integrity and accountability.
He urged aspirants to remain transparent and responsive to the needs of the students once elected.
“They should also be able to work collaboratively with the school management to achieve common goals,” he added.
Olugbenga Oyinlola, a Part 3 student from the Department of English, expressed excitement about the active participation of students in the campus political scene.
“It’s thrilling to see students taking such keen interest in leadership roles. It shows that we’re not just passive observers but active participants in shaping our campus community,” she remarked.
Similarly, Olayiwola Adebayo, a final-year student from the Faculty of Pharmacy, highlighted the need for innovation and inclusiveness in leadership.
“I hope those aspiring for these positions will be proactive and open to creative solutions for the challenges we face as students. Leadership is about thinking outside the box and carrying everyone along,” Adebayo stated.
