ESUT SUG Election peaceful, transparent – VC

On Tuesday, July 7, 2026, the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) successfully concluded its Students' Union Government (SUG) election, which was described by the university's Vice Chancellor, Prof Aloysius-Michaels Okolie, as peaceful, credible, and transparent. The election took place amid claims of external interference and misinformation aimed at disrupting the process. Despite these challenges, the event proceeded smoothly under strict monitoring and electronic voting procedures designed to prevent fraud and ensure fairness. The election featured 42 candidates vying for leadership positions within the SUG. However, prior to the voting, a security screening was conducted by the Intelligence Unit and Anti-Cult operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, Enugu State Command. This screening aimed to identify any candidates linked to cult activities, which the university strictly prohibits. According to Prof. Okolie, 42 aspirants failed to appear for the screening and were subsequently disqualified from the election. These individuals were suspected of having connections with cult groups, which the university administration views as a serious threat to campus safety and academic integrity. Over the past year, the university management has faced persistent allegations and misinformation campaigns concerning the SUG election. Prof. Okolie claimed that certain forces attempted to undermine the election by spreading false narratives about the university's involvement in the process. He emphasized that the management had been actively resisting these efforts, maintaining a firm stance against any form of cult activity on campus. The Vice Chancellor highlighted the importance of transparency and accountability in the electoral process. The SUG election was conducted using an electronic voting system, allowing students to cast their votes online. This method ensured that each eligible voter could participate once, and results were displayed in real-time. The system was accessible only to genuine students who had settled their tuition fees, thereby preventing fraudulent participation. The entire process was overseen by the National Association of Nigerian Students, ensuring compliance with established standards. Following the conclusion of the election, Nwobodo Isaac Chidera was declared the President-elect of the ESUT Students' Union Government after receiving 2,002 votes. His closest competitor, Agbo Jeremiah Chika, garnered 299 votes. In addition to the presidency, other key positions were filled. Nevo Precious Chisom was elected Vice President with 1,356 votes, while Amaechi Gideon, Eze Favour Chibuike, and Asogwa Kelechi Genevieve secured the roles of Treasurer, Secretary General, and Assistant Secretary General, respectively. Prof. Okolie expressed confidence in the effectiveness of the electronic voting system used during the election. He suggested that this model could be expanded to other levels of governance in Nigeria, promoting transparency and reducing the potential for violence in electoral processes. The Vice Chancellor also urged the Visitor to the University and Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah, to conduct an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the SUG election. This call comes in response to concerns about alleged malfeasance and the need to hold accountable those who might have sought to disrupt the election. Despite the challenges posed by misinformation and alleged interference, the Enugu State Government remains supportive of the university's management. The smooth execution of the SUG election underscores the commitment of both the university and the state government to upholding democratic principles and ensuring that student leadership transitions occur in a fair and orderly manner. Looking ahead, the new SUG leadership will play a crucial role in representing the interests of the student body and contributing to the overall development of ESUT.