By Nosa Ekhator
The Management of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma (AAU), has justified its decision to indefinitely postpone the Students’ Union (SUG) elections earlier scheduled for April 30, 2026, citing Constitutional provisions, need to safeguard peace on campus and general security concerns.
The explanation was contained in a statement issued by the Principal Assistant Registrar/Head, Information, Protocol and Public Relations, Otunba Mike Aladenika, who said the decision was taken in the overall interest of the university community.
Aladenika noted that although the elections had been overdue since 2025, long before the current Management came on-board, the April 2026 date was a concession granted by management to promote cordial relations with students.
“The decision to conduct the elections in April 2026 was borne out of Management's magnanimity and desire to sustain harmony within the university community,” he said.
He explained that all aspirants were duly informed that candidates would be subjected to both internal and external screening by relevant institutional organs and security agencies, stressing that disqualification on security grounds remains a long-standing practice.
“It was clearly communicated from the outset that any candidate who fails either the internal or external screening would be disqualified. This is not new; it has been an established procedure over the years,” Aladenika stated.
According to him, the internal screening exercise led to the disqualification of several candidates, while external security profiling yielded similar outcomes, necessitating further action.
He recalled that the situation mirrors past precedence, particularly the 2005/2006 academic session when all presidential aspirants were disqualified based on adverse security reports.
“Following that development, fresh applications were requested. After another round of screening, only two candidates were cleared to contest, with Okojie Landus eventually emerging as SUG President,” he added.
Aladenika stressed that the current development should not be viewed as extraordinary, noting that similar measures had been taken in the past in the interest of campus security and stability.
However, he expressed concern that the recent disqualifications had sparked agitation and threats capable of undermining peace within the university.
“The reactions trailing the disqualification of some candidates, including threats and acts capable of disrupting public order, made it imperative for management to act decisively to preserve peace,” he said.
Beyond security considerations, the university also cited the Students’ Union Constitution, particularly Section 39(a), which provides that elections must be conducted eight weeks after the commencement of the second semester.
Aladenika noted that “In view of the constitutional provision and the proximity of examinations scheduled to begin on May 11, 2026, Management resolved that proceeding with the elections at this time would not be in the best interest of the university,”
He said the postponement was necessary to ensure a hitch-free examination process and the timely completion of the 2025/2026 academic session.
“All matters relating to the Students’ Union elections have therefore been put on hold until conditions are more conducive and in line with constitutional provisions,” he added.
The university further disclosed that the Dean of Students would, after consultations with key stakeholders including the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), advise on whether the current Electoral Committee (ELECOM) would continue or if an interim arrangement would be put in place.
While urging calm, Aladenika warned students against actions that could violate their matriculation oath and the oath of good conduct.
“Students are advised in their own interest to remain law-abiding and channel all grievances through the Office of the Dean of Students for prompt resolution,” he said.
He reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to due process, student welfare, and the maintenance of peace, insisting that the postponement was a necessary and responsible decision.
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