₦airaland Forum

Management of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) has placed a ban on all social activities on campus following the recent killing of a final year male student identified as Desmond Obukobo Oghenerukhewe.

METROWATCH reports that Desmond, popularly called ‘Mayor’ by colleagues, was last week Monday murdered in cold blood right inside his hostel room in the popular hall 3 Hall of Residence at the Ugbowo campus.

A memo issued by the university’s Dean of Students, Professor Clement Ighodaro, on Tuesday, obtained by METROWATCH, said all “activities related to students gathering are suspended till further notice.”

Although the university management did not state the reason for the ban, METROWATCH learned that the development may not be unconnected to the recent gruesome murder of the final year student on campus.

Precedents

But this is not the first time that UNIBEN has placed restrictions on students’ activities on campus. Over the past years, the institution have adopted such ‘measures’ in the wake of killings of its students.

In 2019, the school banned all social activities on campus following the killing of a 200-level student simply identified as Aficionado by suspected cultists during a final year jean carnival by students of the the Faculty of Arts.

Similarly, in the wake of cult-related killings in Benin City, in 2021, UNIBEN restricted social activities on campus with a directive that all activities must be carried out with permission from the Dean of Students.

Backstory

Unknown assailants on Monday April 3, sent ‘Mayor’, a final year Public Administration student to early grave. Security has been beefed up on campus in the wake of the incident, while normal activities, including academic, are ongoing.

Management of the university had pledged to intensify efforts to protect the lives of staff and students at all time and forestall re-occurrence of such incident within the university’s premises.

A statement endorsed by the UNIBEN’s spokesperson, Mrs Benedicta Ehanire, said ”Management is working closely with the internal security units in ensuring that such dastardly incident does not occur again within the University’s premises.”

While commiserating with the family and colleagues of the murdered student, the UNIBEN management enjoined other students to be calm “as the Police as well as other Security Agencies are working hard to fish out and arrest the culprit.”

On its part, the Edo State Police Command said the death of the final year student was caused by a rivalry war between two cult groups, adding that the deceased belonged to one of the outlawed secret cult groups.

Police spokesperson, SP Chidi Nwabuzor said the late Desmond, who was also the head of Kegites Club in UNIBEN, was a member of Maphites secret cult group and he was killed by members of the Bl@ck axe popularly called Eiye.

“Preliminary investigation showed that the victim was a member of Maphites while the killers are members of Aye. The DPO will transfer the case to the SCID to continue investigation,” the police image maker claimed.

More than one week, however, the police are yet to make arrests in connection to the incident. Efforts to obtain comments from the police spokesperson were unsuccessful.

Students react

Meanwhile, students, especially those in final year, have expressed mixed reactions over the ban on social activities on campus.

Some of them while lamenting the suspension, said social activities help to bring students together and foster unity among them when they leave school.

A 500-level Engineering student who preferred anonymity said: “I don’t think suspending social activities on campus is the best option to handling security challenges. Besides, the killing took place inside the hostel and not during any social activity or gathering of students.”

Samuel, a 500-level Law student, described the suspension of social activities on campus by school authorities as heartbreaking, ”and a violation of citizens’ rights as permitted by the Nigerian Constitution.”

He said if the University management beefed up security they would be able to handle any crisis that may arise during social activities, while calling for adequate security on campus.

“It seems the school is becoming more boring. How can social activities be suspended just like that? Are they trying to pin the killing on social activities? That's unfair!,” said Samuel.

“If the problem is security, I think strong security measures should be put in place during such activities or events to protect students instead of this outright and unlawful ban.

”These activities have been going on in school for a very long time and adds so much value to the society. Activities like the cultural or faculty week bring togetherness among students. It creates unity and oneness.”

Jennifer, a 400-level Fine Arts student, opposed the ban, saying: “Social activities on campus, especially final year activities, are meant to celebrate the successful completion of academic studies. It is a kind of reunion where students get to celebrate with each other before they all set out to different destinations of life.

“This is an important phase of students life and it has brought about unity and joy to students in the past. It is sad that it has been suspended again like the previous administration did,” Jennifer argued.

Vanessa, a 400-level Education student, said management should have a rethink as the importance of social activities on students’ lives cannot be overemphasized, especially as it has added values to the lives of students.

She said: ”The cultural activities, for instance, have enlightened and educated most students in so many areas. For example, most students who do not know how to speak their mother tongue have been privileged to learn through the cultural associations in the institution.

“It has also brought about enlightenment in the area of our cultural heritage and history of our tribes. We have learnt so much through this activities on campus, so I am not pleased with the suspension of all social activities on campus.”

However, for Osas, a 200-level student from the Faculty of Social Sciences, social activities on campus have always been hijacked by people with dubious intentions.

He said some students feel that such events have become an occasion where they can hurt fellow students they may have had issues with and so they take advantage of the occasion.

“The yearly killing of students, especially during final year week is saddening. It is something we do not want to experience again. Some years ago, a student was shot dead by suspected cultists during the final year celebration.

“So I understand where the school management is coming from. It is a wise move to suspend social activities and we all should adhere to it.”

Cynthia, a Life Science 300-level student, also backed the move by management, noting that events on campus had always given room for conflict because of lack of security during such activities.

She claimed that during such activities, outsiders are allowed into the school without proper identification or screening at the main gate by security personnel.

“Most of these flashy car drivers you see on campus may not be students, yet they are allowed into the school. Some of them may be there to cause trouble and walk away. So I think the move by management is to checkmate these excesses,” she said.

Suvvee, a 400-level Mass Communication student, said: “I do not believe in some of these (social) activities especially the so-called final year week. A lot of students have lost their lives in the process and the ban is a move to address violence and killings among cult rival groups.”

Favour, a 100-level student of Accounting, said: “School is a learning environment. Management cannot be blamed for placing a ban on social activities. At present, the security situation of the country leaves much to be desired. Therefore, the suspension of social activities by the school authorities is commendable. In the long run, students will derive huge benefits from the decision.”

An official of the UNIBEN Students’ Union, who craved anonymity said although social activities remain a source of joy to newly admitted and final year students, ”but in recent years, these (social) activities have become an avenue to forment trouble and mayhem. Therefore, school authorities cannot be blamed for placing a ban on social activities. At present, the security situation of the country leaves much to be desired.”

Social activities were first suspended on UNIBEN campus four years ago as a result of the assassination of a final year student of the Department of Nursing, by suspected cultists within the school premises.

Pandemonium broke out at the university’s Ugbowo campus that day, sending students and lecturers scampering for safety. The deceased, who was heading for a carnival organised for students in Social Sciences, was shot on the neck at close range by an unknown gunman.

It was later learnt that the assailant drove into the school in a tinted glass vehicle and hid at the car [quote]park where he ambushed the deceased and shot him.

The death of the said final year student had then become a major reason management felt such social activities which may lead to bloodshed among students needed to be nipped in the bud via the ban on social activities.

“While this have apparently eased cult-related activities during such social outings, it is however hoped that the ban will in the long run serve as a panacea to such wanton and needless violence among students of UNIBEN. Then other tertiary institutions across the country may imitate such move,” a top management staff told METROWATCH.

Obaseki Approves Automatic Employment of First-class Graduates of Edo Origin in All Nigerian Universities

…as Head of Service Requests List of Potential Candidates from Vice Chancellors

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has approved the automatic employment of First Class graduates of Edo origin in all Nigerian universities into the state’s civil and public service.

The approval was conveyed by the Edo State Head of Service, Anthony Okungbowa Esq., who applauded the governor for the gesture, which he described as pace-setting and a worthy move that would equip the Edo State Civil and Public Service with the best brains to engender the vision of making Edo the best place to live and work by 2050.

He noted that the gesture was initially extended to the Best Graduating Students of the Edo State University, Uzairue during its 3rd Convocation Ceremony but was later extended to the University of Benin and Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma.

Okungbowa said the names of 15 First Class graduates and the Best Graduating Students from the universities have since been forwarded to the Civil Service Commission for further action.

He called on Vice Chancellors of Nigerian universities to “forward the names and particulars of First Class students, who are Edo indigenes, to the Edo State Government for the purpose.”

Recall that Edo State has the record of being the highest-paying state government among Nigerian States, as Governor Obaseki had raised the minimum wage in the state to N40,000.

The State runs an e-governance system that has automated work processes even as the work environment has been remodeled to fast-track a smart and ICT-driven work culture.

Following the killing of a final year student of the University of Benin, Desmond Obukobo Oghenerukhewe, the institution, yesterday, deployed and stationed security operatives at strategic points on campus.

Desmond, popularly called ‘Mayor’ by friends and colleagues, was Monday night murdered in cold blood right inside his hostel room in the popular Hall 3 unisex hall of residence at the Ugbowo main campus.

A visit to the University located at the ever-busy Uselu-Lagos expressway, Wednesday, revealed that security have been beefed up on campus following the gruesome murder of the male Public Administration student.

Armed security operatives were sighted by this Reporter apparently on duty to unmask the perpetrators of the murder, restore peace to the troubled students’ community and forestall breakdown of law and order.

At the institution's main gate, entrance to the university's campus, security operatives on duty were busy carrying out a stop-and-search operation, while some patrol vans were seen moving around campus.

Other unmarked patrol vehicles with uniform men and security personnel on mufti were equally sighted around some faculties including Engineering, Bursary, lecture theatres and other locations.

It was also observed that security have been beefed up around the central administration building housing the Vice Chancellor's Office and other principal officers, including Registry (Office of the Registrar).

Normal activities including lectures were ongoing at the various faculties after the one-day lecture free day observed on Tuesday, in honour of the victim, with students gathered in groups discussing the matter.

One of the students who spoke to METROWATCH under the strict condition of anonymity, equally confirmed sighting security operatives at the hostel where the incident took place.

“Yes, it is true that investigation has started. Some police officers came to the hotel and cordoned off the crime scene, the room is under lock and key as we speak,” the student said.

Spokesperson for the Edo state police command, SP Chidi Nwabuzor, had on Tuesday, while confirming the student's murder to journalists, described the killing as cult-related.

He said the late Desmond who was also the head of Kegite Club in the university, was a member of Maphites secret cult group and he was killed by members of the popularly called Aye.

“Preliminary investigation showed that the victim was a member of mahpites while the killers are members of Aye. The DPO will transfer the case to the SCID to continue investigation,” the police image maker said.

On its part, the University of Benin said management had intensified efforts to protect the lives of staff and students and forestall re-occurrence within the university's premises.

A statement endorsed by the UNIBEN’s spokesperson, Mrs Benedicta Ehanire, said ”Management is working closely with the internal security units in ensuring that such dastardly incident does not occur again within the University’s premises.”

While commiserating with the family and colleagues of the murdered student, the UNIBEN management enjoined other students to be calm “as the Police as well as other Security Agencies are working hard to fish out and arrest the culprit.”

Meanwhile, colleagues of the deceased and the leadership of the university's Students’ Union Government (SUG) have announced procession for their murdered colleague holding on Thursday at the institution's main campus.

The Edo state police command has confirmed the killing of a final year student of the University of Benin identified as Desmond Obukobo Oghenerukhewe, alias Mayor, in one of the halls of residence on campus.

Spokesman for the state police command, SP Chidi Nwabuzor, who confirmed the development to journalists on Tuesday, described the killing as cult-related.

According to him, the late Mayor who was also the head of Kegite Club in the university, was a member of Maphites secret cult group and he was killed by members of the Bl@ck Axe popularly called Aye.

His words, “The DPO Ugbowo reported that he got a phone call from CSO of the university about the incident and when he they got there, a room in Hall 3, the saw the lifeless body and some items like voter’s card, school ID card and other items were found with him.

“Preliminary investigation showed that the victim was a member of mahpites while the killers are members of Aye. The DPO will transfer the case to the SCID to continue investigation.”

Meanwhile, management of the University of Benin has condemned the Monday night's brutal killing of the final year male student right inside his hostel room in the popular Hall 3 hall of residence on campus.

A statement endorsed by the UNIBEN’s spokesperson, Mrs Benedicta Ehanire, said ”Management is working closely with the internal security units in ensuring that such dastardly incident does not occur again within the University’s premises.”

While comisserating with the family and colleagues of the murdered student, the UNIBEN Management enjoined other students to be calm “as the Police as well as other Security Agencies are working hard to fish out and arrest the culprit.”

Previous thread;


Shock as UNIBEN Student Murdered In Cold Blood Inside Hostel On Campus

Palpable anxiety has gripped the University of Benin (UNIBEN), in Edo State, following the gruesome murder of a yet-to-be identified student of the institution, by unknown assassins.

CAMPUS GIST reliably gathered that the male student was murdered Monday night in cold blood right inside his room in the popular Hall 3 hall of residence on campus.

Fear and apprehension enveloped the University community, especially students living on campus, soon after the lifeless body of the student was discovered by his colleagues.

It was gathered that the deceased with “Mayor” as alias, was the head of popular social group, Kegite, on campus. Friends and colleagues describe him as a ”jolly good fellow.”

A video clip exclusively obtained by CAMPUS GIST Monday night, show that the deceased’s face was mercilessly slashed by the unknown assailants. Eyewitnesses claim he was shot at least thrice.

In what can best be described as a mystery, no one is yet able to come up with how the assailants gained entry into the campus’ hostel, carried out the act and escaped uncaught.

A male student who spoke to this Online Medium on the strict condition of anonymity, claimed that security in UNIBEN had deteriorated with little or no conscious security of students living on campus.

“Ever since Management brought in Solar (a private security firm) security surveillance on campus drastically reduced, even the potters drafted to man the hostels are elderly people who could barely chase a rat,” the student said.

On her part, a female students, who gave her name simply as Rejoice, told this Reporter that her friend, Joy (not real name) was almost raped at a time when they went for night reading.

“The school promised us security, that is why most of us chose to stay on campus not like it’s convenient. What do you tell a parent whose son was put under your care but murdered in cold blood? Who could be next? We are no longer safe!

“Let’s say the truth, the school is too exposed, we don’t feel safe no more – anybody, I mean, any outsider can just stroll into Campus and the hostels without been screened by security, they (security) don’t even take note of strange faces,” she claimed.

Efforts to obtain comment from the University Management proved abortive. As at the time of filing this report, the institution was yet to formally react to the development.

Also, spokesperson to the Edo State Police Command, SP Chidi Nwabuzor, said the police headquarters were yet to be briefed on the matter.

However, a statement endorsed by spokesperson for the University’s Students’ Union, Gerald Nnadi, advised the students to remain calm, as the authorities have been informed on the development.

“All students of the University of Benin are advised to remain calm and stay indoors,” he said, adding, ”If you are not on campus you can stay wherever you are. The relevant authorities have been informed and they are putting all hands on deck to bring normalcy (sic).”

Management of the University of Benin (UNIBEN), in Edo State, has condemned the brutal killing of a final year male student of the institution by unknown gunmen Monday night on campus.

CAMPUS GIST yesterday broke the news of the sad killing of the student identified as Desmond Rukevwe Emuobonuvie, alias, Mayor, right inside his room in one of the halls of residence on campus.

It was gathered that the deceased was the head of popular social group, Kegite, on campus. The incident took place past 9pm midnight in the popular Hall 3 unisex hostel at the Ugbowo main campus.

While comisserating with the family and colleagues of the murdered student, the UNIBEN Management enjoined other students to be calm “as the Police as well as other Security Agencies are working hard to fish out and arrest the culprit.”

In a statement endorsed by the Institution’s spokesperson, Mrs Benedicta Ehanire, early Tuesday morning, she said, ”Management is also working closely with the internal security units in ensuring that such dastardly incident does not occur again within the University’s premises.”

Palpable anxiety has gripped the University of Benin (UNIBEN), in Edo State, following the gruesome murder of a yet-to-be identified student of the institution, by unknown assassins.

CAMPUS GIST reliably gathered that the male student was murdered Monday night in cold blood right inside his room in the popular Hall 3 hall of residence on campus.

Fear and apprehension enveloped the University community, especially students living on campus, soon after the lifeless body of the student was discovered by his colleagues.

It was gathered that the deceased with “Mayor” as alias, was the head of popular social group, Kegite, on campus. Friends and colleagues describe him as a ”jolly good fellow.”

A video clip exclusively obtained by CAMPUS GIST Monday night, show that the deceased’s face was mercilessly slashed by the unknown assailants. Eyewitnesses claim he was shot at least thrice.

In what can best be described as a mystery, no one is yet able to come up with how the assailants gained entry into the campus’ hostel, carried out the act and escaped uncaught.

A male student who spoke to this Online Medium on the strict condition of anonymity, claimed that security in UNIBEN had deteriorated with little or no conscious security of students living on campus.

“Ever since Management brought in Solar (a private security firm) security surveillance on campus drastically reduced, even the potters drafted to man the hostels are elderly people who could barely chase a rat,” the student said.

On her part, a female students, who gave her name simply as Rejoice, told this Reporter that her friend, Joy (not real name) was almost raped at a time when they went for night reading.

“The school promised us security, that is why most of us chose to stay on campus not like it’s convenient. What do you tell a parent whose son was put under your care but murdered in cold blood? Who could be next? We are no longer safe!

“Let’s say the truth, the school is too exposed, we don’t feel safe no more – anybody, I mean, any outsider can just stroll into Campus and the hostels without been screened by security, they (security) don’t even take note of strange faces,” she claimed.

Efforts to obtain comment from the University Management proved abortive. As at the time of filing this report, the institution was yet to formally react to the development.

Also, spokesperson to the Edo State Police Command, SP Chidi Nwabuzor, said the police headquarters were yet to be briefed on the matter.

However, a statement endorsed by spokesperson for the University’s Students’ Union, Gerald Nnadi, advised the students to remain calm, as the authorities have been informed on the development.

“All students of the University of Benin are advised to remain calm and stay indoors,” he said, adding, ”If you are not on campus you can stay wherever you are. The relevant authorities have been informed and they are putting all hands on deck to bring normalcy (sic).”

Palpable anxiety has gripped the University of Benin (UNIBEN), in Edo State, following the gruesome murder of a yet-to-be identified student of the institution, by unknown assassins.

CAMPUS GIST reliably gathered that the male student was murdered Monday night in cold blood right inside his room in the popular Hall 3 hall of residence on campus.

Fear and apprehension enveloped the University community, especially students living on campus, soon after the lifeless body of the student was discovered by his colleagues.

It was gathered that the deceased with “Mayor” as alias, was the head of popular social group, Kegite, on campus. Friends and colleagues describe him as a ”jolly good fellow.”

A video clip exclusively obtained by CAMPUS GIST Monday night, show that the deceased’s face was mercilessly slashed by the unknown assailants. Eyewitnesses claim he was shot at least thrice.

In what can best be described as a mystery, no one is yet able to come up with how the assailants gained entry into the campus’ hostel, carried out the act and escaped uncaught.

A male student who spoke to this Online Medium on the strict condition of anonymity, claimed that security in UNIBEN had deteriorated with little or no conscious security of students living on campus.

“Ever since Management brought in Solar (a private security firm) security surveillance on campus drastically reduced, even the potters drafted to man the hostels are elderly people who could barely chase a rat,” the student said.

On her part, a female students, who gave her name simply as Rejoice, told this Reporter that her friend, Joy (not real name) was almost raped at a time when they went for night reading.

“The school promised us security, that is why most of us chose to stay on campus not like it’s convenient. What do you tell a parent whose son was put under your care but murdered in cold blood? Who could be next? We are no longer safe!

“Let’s say the truth, the school is too exposed, we don’t feel safe no more – anybody, I mean, any outsider can just stroll into Campus and the hostels without been screened by security, they (security) don’t even take note of strange faces,” she claimed.

Efforts to obtain comment from the University Management proved abortive. As at the time of filing this report, the institution was yet to formally react to the development.

Also, spokesperson to the Edo State Police Command, SP Chidi Nwabuzor, said the police headquarters were yet to be briefed on the matter.

However, a statement endorsed by spokesperson for the University’s Students’ Union, Gerald Nnadi, advised the students to remain calm, as the authorities have been informed on the development.

“All students of the University of Benin are advised to remain calm and stay indoors,” he said, adding, ”If you are not on campus you can stay wherever you are. The relevant authorities have been informed and they are putting all hands on deck to bring normalcy (sic).”

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, Prince John Mayaki, has called for the prosecution of an alleged supporter of Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi who was thrown out of a flight by airport security after attempting to hinder take-off with an “unseemly protest” of the presidential election results and APC’s Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s victory.

Recall that the yet-to-be-identified middle-aged man was seen in a viral video clip inside an Abuja — Lagos bound Ibom Air flight before take-off yelling and urging other ‘Obidients’ on the flight to join him and protest Tinubu’s impending swearing-in as the country’s next president on May 29.

Mayaki, who responded to the incident via a statement in Abuja on Saturday, described it as a “disturbing culmination of weeks of unchecked disinformation and radicalization of naive supporters by a group committed to subverting the country’s democracy and sparking off violent conflict to prevent the peaceful transition of power.”

He urged security agencies to step-up their response to the threat by apprehending and legally charging these “fascists and their backers”, while also warning the Nigeria Broadcast Commission (NBC) to play its part by heavily sanctioning platforms permitting the spread of lies and negative propaganda designed to undermine the legitimacy of the presidential election.

“This is what you get when sore losers are given a free rein to radicalize their naive and exuberant supporters with irresponsible comments on national television, as well as other media outlets, which undermine the outcome of the electoral contest and boldly call for the cancellation of the scheduled swearing-in,” Mayaki said.

“We are now treading dangerous waters in this country, such that Peter Obi’s errant mob, who account for a tiny minority and who credibly lost the February contest, are refusing to accept the outcome, choosing instead to burn down the country and hold the majority to ransom.

“For days since the conclusion of the election, these individuals and their foreign backers have held meetings where they openly planned subversive and violent actions, including the blocking of major highways and grounding of international airports, all of which are protected assets due to their national importance and what they symbolize.

“Even the Vice Presidential candidate of the party who ought to sue for calm and insist on the legal course of action, which is the filing of the petition at the Tribunal, went on television to stir and incite, denying the outcome of the polls as announced by INEC, and announcing his own result.

“No action was brought against him by those with the responsibility to do so and the media station that aired his dangerous lies without the necessary check was merely slapped on the wrist with a fine I’m sure they paid the following day.

“This is not how to protect our democracy and sustain our globally praised streak of peaceful transition of power since 1999. Security agencies must do more than just issue statements. They must arrest and prosecute these fascists and those behind the veil sponsoring their illegal and anti-democratic missions.

“The NBC, too, must play its regulatory role in a far more serious fashion by taking appropriate measures to curb the dangerous spread of lies and propaganda about the presidential contest. No individual should feel so emboldened to go on national media to deny the fact that Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is the President-Elect. Platforms enabling such dangerous comments should be heavily fined so they learn to take their social responsibility obligation seriously.”

Mayaki also urged the Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, and other well-meaning Nigerians to condemn the dangerous actions before it is too late, warning that the destruction of the country’s democracy, which is premised on respect for elections and their outcome, is not in anyone’s interest.

“If I, Mascot Uzor Kalu can be the saviour that can bring us out of the menace that we are in, people should stand and vote for me, and not say my brother has been this and that. And the Constitution gives me the right to do so.

“If you go to the U.S where I had my training, George Bush Snr. finished being President, George Bush Jr. became the Governor of Texas. His brother was a Governor in Florida. George Bush Jnr. is the one responsible for the economic revival that you’re seeing in Texas today.

“In New York, you have Governor Cuomo, who ruled for twelve years and within a space of sixteen years, his son became Governor and ruled New York for eleven years, meaning in the last thirty-nine years, the Cuomos have ruled New York for twenty-three years.

“We can no longer be blinded by all of these things. My brother is my brother and I stand by my brother’s record when he was governor. I will review his administration, build on the things he did well and improve on the things he did not do well. We are determined to pull Abia state from its conundrum and infrastructure menace, all we are asking is for the people to stand by us and vote for the Action Peoples Party (APP). Vote Elephant!”

According to Williams Shakespeare, “some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them.”
The case of Hon. Mascot Uzor Kalu, fondly called MUK, “Nwa afo Igbere”, could be the combination of the above three scenarios. Indeed, the progressive and sustained rise of this great achiever of our time is purely as a result of the combination of the above facts. Mascot achieved greatness by dirt of hard work and grace in fulfillment of a great destiny.

The first time I met Hon. Mascot, I was instantly drawn by his ebullient personality. Contrary to what I was used to, he did not make me feel that I was before a “powerful politician.” He did not try to intimidate me with his power, and he certainly did not try to belittle me. That left a strong impression on me and the story did not change in subsequent encounters. The man is very comfortable in his own skin. Mascot showed up quite early in life the diligence, intelligence and compassion that have defined his meritorious life. This has characterised his meteoric rise to prominence in the political, business and social spheres where he has become a pivot and magnetic rallying point among all that have had the privilege to come in contact with him, especially the youths. He remains a brilliant young man of multiple mix, outstanding personality and fame. His positive social aura dominates his environment. Mascot does not assert himself to get noticed. With the dignity of an eagle, the strides of a stallion, the gait of Adonis; his infectious warmth, affable disposition and evincible charm have all combined to earn him the widespread acceptance he enjoys today. It is preposterous for one to underestimate Hon. Mascot or misconstrue his modesty and unassuming personae for weakness; a man who has the stellar reputation of being the best Chief of Staff — overseeing over 800 staff who were responsible to him on a daily basis, implementing the government's decisions and people-oriented policies — you do not achieve that feat by being a simpleton. Indeed, it is a powerful testament to Mascot’s people skills, managerial acumen, tact, and wisdom that he could do that successfully, before resigning into private business. The only man in history who has done that! I mean, come on, these are qualities, I believe, a state like Abia needs in their next governor.

Affable, unpretentious, and large-hearted — that is the essential Mascot. Yet, for all his famed simplicity, accessibility, and humility, it would be a big mistake to take him for granted. The man is a study in self-belief. All great leaders through generations possess that quality of self-confidence. And Mascot impresses in that regard. Among all the candidates vying for the Abia State’s plum position to occupy the Government House, Umuahia, come May 29, 2023, Mascot stands out and stands tall with the credibility of not just winning an election, but serving successfully. It is his understanding and readiness to address the State’s development aspirations arising from his engagements with every sector of the State that inspired his desire to serve and entrance into the governorship race. In doing this, he has evolved a most people-friendly and development-oriented manifesto where he articulated his vision and strategy for the development of Abia State. Mascot has embarked on a strategic “meet-the-people” campaign as he takes his message to the people of Abia State. His manifesto seeks to give Ndi Abia meaningful development, enhanced peace and security, realistic reforms and opportunities for all. Embedded in each of the concepts on which the manifesto is anchored are visions and clear cut strategies for their realisation. Education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, electricity, industrialization and ICT are the key drivers of the Mascot's agenda.

The Action Peoples Party (APP) gubernatorial candidate may not be a garrulous person but he can certainly hold his own in public, as quite evident in the ward-to-ward campaign rallies; the only candidate who is able to embark on such a herculean task — just to feel the peoples’ heart(beats), understand what [challenges] they are faced with, and how to address them. Even his critics agree that these are indeed impressive outings. But as any good student of politics knows, it takes more than oratorical skills to make a good leader. One can be fantastically gifted with oratorical prowess and be painfully lacking in the rudiments of governance or leadership skills. What sets Mascot apart are his vision, tenacity of purpose, courage, wise planning, faith, integrity, and the ability to mobilise men and resources to achieve a common goal. He is undoubtedly a consensus builder and unifier and, therefore, best suited to advance Abia State to the next level of growth and prosperity. I can unequivocally say that Ndi Abia have a fine blend of strength and service, courage and compassion, and faith and fidelity in Mascot.

The truth is that no other governorship candidate is as prepared as Hon. Mascot Uzor Kalu. For Mascot, politics is about the people. His political philosophy is anchored on the people’s welfare, his ideology has been people-driven. As an individual, he is compassion personified. This reflects in the Mascot Uzor Kalu Organisation which has brought succour to the needy through scholarships, empowerment, and entrepreneurial schemes, and other support programmes for the young and the old. Mascot is without doubt a rare Abian in a class of his own. His political antecedents and social networks across different divides attest to his unassailable character. He is a consensus builder who has forged deep friendships and contacts across the three Senatorial Districts of Abia State. His down-to-earth personality and accessible nature has endeared him to all Abians. He is at home with the rich and the poor, the educated and uneducated, the powerful and the powerless. It is largely due to his humility and uncanny ability to carry everybody along that the people of Abia State have unanimously endorsed him as the best candidate for the governorship in 2023. Mascot’s grassroots appeal makes him a sure bet for democracy and her populist ideals. He is a listener, and team player. These attributes attest to his uncommon leadership acumen. What is becoming clearer by the day is the apparent and crystal clear signs that Hon. Mascot has earned the peoples’ support and verdict that he is the next governor of Abia State come 2023. Mascot is without doubt very well prepared for the high office of Governor. He has undergone full political tutelage. He knows the people and the people are with him. He understands the issues in theory and practice. Mascot will not be a zonal Governor, but a capacity Governor for all Abians. Hon. Mascot runs on grace, courage, and destiny. He is God’s own project as the next Governor of Abia State. Indeed, this young man will make a good Governor, Ndi Abia, let us give him the mandate to pilot the affairs of the State to the admiration of the people come 11th March, 2023 by voting APP.

Following the declaration of his party's presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu, as president-elect, President Muhammadu Buhari has promised a smooth handover of power come May 29, 2023.

Buhari made the pledge in a congratulatory message to the former Lagos governor, via a statement signed by his senior spokesman, Garba Shehu, and made available to newsmen Wednesday morning.

Describing Tinubu as the best man for the job, Buhari noted that the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate was elected by the people, adding, “I shall now work with him and his team to ensure an orderly handover of power.”

Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, on Wednesday, in Abuja, declared Tinubu as winner of the February 25, 2023 presidential election with 8,794,726 votes.

Tinubu defeated his closest rival, Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who polled 6,984,520 votes, with Peter Obi of Labour Party (LP) coming third with 6,101,533 votes, and Rabiu Kwankwaso of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) taking fourth place with 1,496,687 votes.

According to Buhari, “There is no doubt the people's decision has been rendered in the results we look at today. The election was Africa’s largest democratic exercise. In a region that has undergone backsliding and military coups in recent years, this election demonstrates democracy’s continued relevance and capability to deliver for the people it serves.

“Within Nigeria, the results reveal democracy’s ripening in our country. Never has the electoral map shifted so drastically in one cycle. In the presidential elections, states in all regions across the nation changed colour.

”Some amongst you may have noticed my home state amongst them. The winning candidate did not carry his own home state either. That happens during a competitive election. Votes and those that cast them cannot be taken for granted. Each must be earned. Competition is good for our democracy.”

On the technical problems with electronic transmission of the results by INEC, President Buhari said efforts would be intensified to bring further transparency and credibility to the voting procedure in the country.

He, however, added that none of the issues raised represent a challenge to the freeness and fairness of the election, saying those who do not agree are free to approach the courts.

“I know some politicians and candidates may not agree with this view. That too is fine. If any candidate believes they can prove the fraud they claim is committed against them, then bring forward the evidence.

”If they cannot, then we must conclude that the election was indeed the people’s will – no matter how hard that may be for the losers to accept. If they feel the need to challenge, please take it to the courts, not to the streets.

“However, to do the latter means they are not doing it in the interest of the people, but rather to inflame, to put people in harm’s way and all for personal, selfish gains,” the president noted.

To the other candidates that took part in the presidential poll, President Buhari said it was now time to come together and act responsibly, even as he encouraged them to abide by the peace accord they signed before the conduct of the election.

”Do not undermine the credibility of INEC. Let us now move forward as one. The people have spoken,” President Buhari added.

President Buhari had on 14th February inaugurated members of the Presidential Transition Council, for facilitating and managing the 2023 transition programme, with Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, as Chairman.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Presidential Campaign Council (PCC) has urged the general public to disregard reports of cancellation of presidential election results for Ika North-East Local Government Area of Delta.

Ika North East is the local government area of Governor of the state and Vice Presidential candidate of the PDP, Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa.

Spokesman of the PDP-PCC, Mr Charles Aniagwu, in a statement made available to MetroWatch in Asaba, on Monday, said the purported cancellation was a figment of the imaginations of the purveyors of the fake news.

He said the results for the Presidential election and National Assembly elections in the area have been duly accepted and declared by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the PDP won in the local government.

Aniagwu, therefore, urged the general public to disregard the said rumour which he said was a propaganda targeted at causing mischief in the area.

According to him, the PDP is doing well in the election, while calling on party faithful to remain hopeful as the results continue to trickle in.

By Ogochukwu Isioma

Mr. Peter Obi, Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party (LP), is leading with 86,285 votes in the five local government areas of Edo so far declared at the state collation centre of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

With 18,219 votes, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, Presidential Candidate of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is next to Obi, while Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has secured 15,040 votes.

MetroWatch reports that results for the presidential election in Edo state was declared by the State collation officer, Prof. Nyaudoh Ndaeyo, Vice Chancellor of the University of Uyo.

See the results below;

Igueben LG
Registered Voters 50,557
Accredited voters 13004
APC – 2419
LP – 6449
NNPP – 64
PDP – 3530
Total valid votes – 12683
Rejected votes 321
Total vote cast 13004

Esan Central LG
Registered Voters – 61,373
Accredited voters – 19411
APC – 4558
LP – 10192
PDP – 3692
NNPP 91
ZLP – 110

Esan North East LG
Registered Voters – 95175
Accredited voters – 24875
APC – 2589
LP -18973
PDP – 2091
NNPP 146
ZLP – 149
Total valid votes – 24236
Rejected 629
Total votes cast – 24865

Egor LG
Registered Voters – 222178
Accredited voters – 49110
APC – 3978
LP – 40160
NNPP – 298
PDP – 1766
ZLP – 547
Total valid votes – 47697
Rejected – 1413
Total votes cast – 49110

Esan South East LG
Registered Voters – 81076
Accredited voters – 20057
APC – 4675
LP – 10511
NNPP – 61
PDP – 3961
ZLP – 73
Total valid votes – 19589
Rejected votes – 438
Total votes cast – 20027

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has won two Senatorial seats in Edo State during the just concluded Saturday February 25, 2023 presidential and national assembly elections.

Metro Watch reports that the party won both the Edo North and Central senatorial districts, while Labour Party (LP) clinched on to the Edo South senatorial seat.

The APC had former Governor Adams Oshiomhole and Monday Okpebholo as candidates for Edo North and Central zones respectively. LP’s Barr. Neda Imasuen defeated APC’s Valentine Asuen (DVD) to win the Edo South seat.

The wins leave the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state – who hitherto occupied both the Edo South and Central senatorial zones – with no single senatorial seat in the next National Assembly.

PDP’s electoral woes in Edo started following the leadership crisis between the Governor Godwin Obaseki and Dan Orbih’s faction, a case the governor later won at the Supreme Court. Aggrieved Orbih’s camp are alleged to have worked against the governor’s candidates in the elections.

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, does not vote in Idia College, where the presidential and national assembly elections voting process was disrupted earlier today by suspected hoodlums.

This is according to a statement issued by Special Adviser to the Governor on Media Projects, Crusoe Osagie, and made available to metrowatchxtra, on Saturday, in Benin City.

He described the report alleging that Obaseki was at Idia College where voting exercise was disrupted as “false and malicious”, noting that the governor does not vote there.

“The governor cast his vote in Emokpae Model Primary School, along Mission Road, and returned to his home afterwards. Idia College is along Iyaro, in Benin City, a totally different location,” Osagie said.

He maintained that the report alleging the contrary is malicious and, therefore, should be disregarded by the public.

“The governor is committed to peaceful, free and credible conduct of the polls in Edo State and does not condone violent conduct anywhere,” the statement added.

Edo gov loses Polling Unit to Labour Party, Obi

Meanwhile, Governor Obaseki on Saturday lost his polling unit to the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, in the presidential and national assembly elections held across the country.

[b]Obaseki, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governor, failed to deliver the party’s flag-bearer, Atiku Abubakar, at his polling unit in Oredo local government area, Ward 4, Unit 19, Emokpae model primary school.

MetroWatch reports that while Obi’s Labour Party polled a total of 105 votes, Atiku’s PDP garnered 55 votes to emerge second, and APC’s Tinubu taking distant third with 27 votes.

Obaseki [/b]had last year during the inauguration of the Edo PDP campaign council ruled out the LP and Peter Obi in the 2023 general elections.

The Governor had maintained that Obi’s supporters popularly known as “Obidients” will soon run out of steam, adding that they their efforts will be in vain.

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki has lost his polling unit to Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, in today’s presidential and national assembly elections.

Obaseki, a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governor, failed to deliver the party’s flag-bearer, Atiku Abubakar, at his polling unit in Oredo local government area, Ward 4, Unit 19, Emokpae model primary school.

MetroWatch reports that while Obi’s Labour Party polled a total of 105 votes, Atiku’s PDP garnered 55 votes to emerge second, and APC’s Tinubu taking distant third with 27 votes.

Obi's Labour Party also won the national assembly polls in the Edo governor's polling unit.

Obaseki had last year during the inauguration of the Edo PDP campaign council ruled out the LP and Peter Obi in the 2023 general elections.

The Governor had maintained that Obi’s supporters popularly known as “Obidients” will soon run out of steam, adding that they their efforts will be in vain.

Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has approved the suspension of the ban on union activities at the Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma and all other state-owned institutions of higher learning across the state, with immediate effect.

The state government had, last year, following a protest by students of AAU over the lingering nationwide strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) suspended all union activities across all state-owned tertiary institutions.

Other unions affected by the action at that time aside ASUU included the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU), the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (NAPS), and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (NASUP).

However, in a statement on Tuesday announcing the lifting of the ban on their activities, Osarodion Ogie, Secretary to the State Government, said the development is due to the restoration of normalcy to the various tertiary institutions in the state, particularly AAU, Ekpoma.

The statement reads in part: “The Edo State Governor, His Excellency, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has approved the suspension of the ban on union activities across all state-owned tertiary institutions.

“The lifting of the suspension, which takes immediate effect, is due to the restoration of normalcy to the various tertiary institutions in the state, particularly the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma.

“By this notice, all affected unions, including the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Congress of University Academics (CONUA), Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU), Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Universities (SSANU), Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), Non-Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics and all allied unions operating across the state-owned tertiary institutions are urged to embrace responsible unionism.”

Ogie added that the Governor Obaseki-led administration was conscious of the role of education in driving economic growth and advancement and remain committed to sustaining the investment and reforms across all levels of education, working with all relevant stakeholders.

The National Examinations Council (NECO) on Thursday announced the release of the result of the November/December 2022 Senior School Certificate Examination.

The Registrar of NECO, Prof Dantani Ibrahim Wushishi, made the announcement in Minna, Niger state.

According to the NECO boss, a total of 59,124 candidates sat for the examination, with 31,316 males, representing 52.96 per cent while 27,808, representing 47.03 per cent were female.

Wushishi added that the number of candidates that sat for English Language is 58,012 out of which 44,162, representing 76.13 per cent got Credit and above, while the number of candidates that sat for Mathematics is 57,700, out of which 43,096, representing 74.69 per cent got Credit and above.

He further disclosed that the number of Candidates who got five Credits and above, including English Language and Mathematics is 33,914 representing 57.36 per cent.

“Also 46,825 candidates, representing 79.20% got five Credits and above irrespective of English Language and Mathematics,” he said.

Speaking on the issue of examination malpractice, he said, “11,419 candidates were booked for various forms of malpractice is , as against 4,454 in 2021, which shows a sharp rise in the number of malpractice cases”.

According to him, this is largely due to the improvement in the strategy and technique adopted by the monitoring officers.

“This led to the blacklisting of four supervisors, one each from Rivers and Plateau States and two from Ogun State for aiding and abetting as well as poor supervision,” he said.

Recall that the 2022 Senior School Certificate Examination, External was conducted by NECO from 21 November to 21 December 2022 and is being released 57 days today after.

Speaking further on the examination, Wushishi said, a total of 29 subjects were examined as was done in 2021.

Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has directed that beginning from February 16, 2023, all Edo City Transport Service (ECTS) buses are to provide free services to passengers.

This, the Governor said, is a means of reducing the effect of the cash crunch experienced by people of the state.

The directive was contained in a statement issued by Special Adviser on Media Projects to the Governor, Mr. Crusoe Osagie, on Thursday, and made available to metrowatchxtra.

He said the directive is applicable to all routes and is effective till Monday, February 20, 2023, after which further announcement would be issued on the matter.

The government, however, called on the people to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring that normalcy will be restored shortly.

Staff and students of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) in Edo State on Wednesday resisted attempts by hoodlums to invade the institution's main campus located in Ugbowo along the ever-busy Uselu-Lagos expressway, under the guise of protesting against the Central Bank's cashless policy.

CAMPUS GIST gathered that the hoodlums had attempted to take advantage of the protest against scarcity of the new Naira notes in Edo State to invade the university, apparently with the motive of unleashing their frustrations and anger on the commercial banks on campus.

Recall that some residents of the state had early Wednesday morning (today) blocked the Uselu-Lagos road and other major roads in the city to protest unavailability of the new naira notes to customers.

Residents who had been going to banks for cash withdrawal, said they could not access their money. They were said to have become agitated when the commercial banks refused to accept the old naira notes as deposits.

The protest at the city square, Ring Road, turned bloody as at least three people were feared killed when they were engaged by security operatives after a foiled attempt to attack the Central Bank, Benin office located around Akpakpava.

Following the botched attack, the angry mob unleashed their angers on nearby commercial banks along Akpakpava by destroying their Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and buildings.

At Ugbowo, hoodlums who had hijacked the protest attempted to invade the UNIBEN campus apparently in a bid to extend similar treatment to the campus-based banks. They, however, met strong resistance from staff and students who quickly responded by shutting the main gates.

In a viral video seen by this online media, some students were seen chasing away few hoodlums who had managed to enter the campus before the gates were shut against them.

The barrier across the expressway which was erected as a safety precaution on the pavements to “force” students to make use of the pedestrian bridge was pulled down by the mob.

A staff who spoke to CAMPUS GIST on the condition of anonymity, told this Reporter that she was caught up in the heat of the protest and had to take alternative route home.

“We were getting ready to leave when news got to us that there was heavy protest at main gate, and that it wasn't safe at the moment to move around. I was forced to trek using the back gate as it was past time for school run and my kid was stranded,” she said.

Contacted, the Edo state police command spokesperson, DSP Chidi Nwabuzor told CAMPUS GIST that senior officers are on the field to get information on the incidents.

‘NAIRA CRISIS’

For days, Nigerians have been battling with the scarcity of naira notes — a development that has led to long queues at banking halls, and automated teller machines (ATMs).

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) had given a deadline of January 31 for the use of old naira notes but it was extended to February 10.

On February 8, the supreme court temporarily restrained the federal government from banning the use of the old naira notes from February 10, 2023, pending the hearing of the matter on February 15.

Despite the court’s order, Emefiele insisted on the deadline.

On Wednesday, the apex court adjourned the hearing of the case brought against the CBN on the policy to Wednesday, February 22.

The stance of the CBN has triggered confusion as filling stations, supermarkets, and other business owners have continued to reject the old naira notes.

Ahead of the February 25 and March 11, 2023 general elections, Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin, Professor Lilian Salami, has called on Nigerians to be patriotic in exercising their franchise.

Salami made the call in a statement she personally signed and addressed to staff and students of the institution on Wednesday, a copy of which was made available to CAMPUS GIST, in Benin City.

CAMPUS GIST reports that the federal government recently approved the closure of varsities across the country from February 22 to March 14, 2023 to enable staff and students to participate in the elections.

In the statement, Prof. Salami urged citizens to remember their responsibilities from obeying the laws, voting and carrying the mantle of tolerance and remain patriotic during and after the polls.

“Being a patriotic citizen takes more than just obeying the laws. It entails being an active participant in your community, treating others with respect, and working to make the world a better place for all,” she said.

The UNIBEN VC called on Nigerians to put themselves in other people's shoes and understand their perspectives, even if it differs from theirs; while praying for a peaceful poll.

My Dear Staff and Students of our great Institution, the University of Benin,

I bring you warm greetings and hope this letter finds you well.
I also believe that our lecturers are doing their best to impart the best of knowledge to our dear students and the students being the best that they possibly can.

As you prepare to head home to observe and participate in the impending national elections, I share a few thoughts with you.

It is important to remember your responsibilities as citizens of this great country - starting from obeying the laws, voting and carrying the mantle of tolerance. I urge you to exemplify all that it means to be patriotic citizens during the election period and always.

Being a patriotic citizen takes more than just obeying the laws. It entails being an active participant in your community, treating others with respect, and working to make the world a better place for all.

We pray for the fairest and most peaceful elections and ask that you comport yourselves with dignity.

Put yourselves in other people's shoes and understand their perspectives, even if they differ from yours. It also means treating everyone with kindness and respect, regardless of their backgrounds, beliefs or persuasions.

I encourage you all to embrace these qualities and remain worthy citizens.

Remember that you have the power to make the difference and positive impact on the world, no matter how small it may seem.

As I say always, striving to be our best selves is the ultimate goal, whether you are on campus or outside the campus. Be a model representative of our great Institution. Together, we can create a brighter future for ourselves and those around us.

Finally, I commend the staff and entire students body for the peaceful Students' Union elections which held yesterday (14th February). I congratulate those who were elected and others who were not. You are all winners and must work together in unity.

Be safe and we look forward to welcoming you back on campus in a few weeks.

Professor Lilian I. Salami,
Vice Chancellor.

Mr. Scott Ogunseri who came second in the just concluded Students' Union Government (SUG) election of the University of Benin (UNIBEN), says the poll was “rigged” against him.

Ogunseri, a 400 level Computer Science student from the Faculty of Physical Sciences, was defeated by Mr. Nmoye Israel, a 400 level student of Dentistry in the election which held on Tuesday 14th February, 2023.

CAMPUS GIST reports that Israel emerged the winner of the election after securing a total of 3,184 votes to beat his major opponent, Ogunseri, who got 2,752 votes.

But the credibility of the election which held physically at both campuses (Ugbowo and Ekehuan), is being challenged by Ogunseri, who has now rejected the results announced by the Students' Electoral Commission.

Ogunseri is alleging that the results were “manipulated”, with claims that some new students and Direct Entry students were allowed to vote in some faculties.

In a terse statement he issued personally on Wednesday morning, the two-time aspirant, however, failed to disclose if he will be challenging the election or not.

Ogunseri said, “Scott Ogunseri rejects the election result from the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry on ground that 100 level, Direct entry and students who are no longer captured in the system were allowed to vote.”

The UNIBEN Electoral Guidelines forbids Direct Entry and new students from voting or being voted for in students' union elections. Although, this online media could not immediately ascertain the veracity of the claims by the aspirant.

However, the Students' Electoral Act allows aggrieved aspirants or contestants to seek redress via petitions. It is expected that aggrieved Ogunseri would be exploring this option, going by his current position.

The 2022/2023 UNIBEN SUG elections had Prof. Benson Osadolor, a former Dean of Students of the University and former Acting Vice Chancellor of the Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, as Returning Officer.

Mr. Nmoye Israel, popularly known as Cyano, a 400 level student of Dentistry of the University of Benin (UNIBEN), has emerged president of the institution's Students’ Union Government (SUG), CAMPUS GIST reports.

This was on Tuesday 14th February, 2023, as students of the University voted to elect a new set of executive members of the Students' Union to pilot the affairs of the UNIBEN SUG for the next one year.

CAMPUS GIST reports that Israel polled a total of 3,184 valid votes cast to beat his closest rival and second-time aspirant, Mr. Ogunseri Scott from the Faculty of Physical Sciences, who garnered a total of 2,752 votes to emerge second.

The exercise, which began early hours of the morning across the various polling units at both the Ugbowo and Ekehuan campuses, recorded a good level of turn out even though only registered students who had paid their tuition fee up to date were allowed to vote.

Our correspondent who monitored the voting process, reports that the exercise was relatively peaceful at the various polling units across the two campuses safe for the few students who complained that they were not allowed to vote owing to late tuition payment.

The University Management had earlier issued a statement, as part of the electoral guidelines, that only students who paid their tuition fee as at 4pm Monday 13th February, 2023, would be allowed to vote or participate in the exercise.

Meanwhile, it was a tight race for some of the elective offices, especially the Presidency. The election was also full of intrigues and surprises as aspirants for the positions of Vice Presidency and Secretary General enjoyed a ‘last minute miracle’ to beat their leading rivals.

Although, as at the time of filing this report, the winners are yet to be formally announced by the Students' Electoral Commission, headed by the Dean of Students as Chairman, but results across the 14 faculties have since been declared. The new SUG president is the founder of popular Edo-based lecture house, Gifted Hands.

The victory of the new Students' Union leaders comes as a ‘special’ valentine's gift to the winners and their supporters who shunned the lover's day celebration to exercise their franchise. They are expected to be sworn in soon, followed by elections into the Students' Representative Council.

Full List of elected UNIBEN 2022/2023 SUG leadership below;

1. President - NMOYE ISRAEL (aka Cyano)

2. Vice President - IDEMUDIA DIVINE

3. Attorney General - GODSWILL AWODIGARI

4. Secretary General - RITA APEJI

5. Assistant Secretary General - OMORUYI CLINTON

6. Director of Finance - EHIS IRABOR

7. Director of Socials - MARCELLUS UCHE

8. Director of Sports - AGHEDO DESTINY

9. Director of Welfare - OKORO ANDREW

10. PRO - KOSI GERALD (UNIBEN JOLLOF)

Some students who spoke to CAMPUS GIST, expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the process, while lauding the ELECO for their efforts. They were, however, of the opinion that it was high time the institution started adopting the online voting system as done in other institutions.

PHOTO CAPTION:
1. President elect, Mr. Nmoye Israel
2. Vice President elect, Miss Idemudia Divine
3. Secretary General elect, Miss Rita Apeji
4. PRO elect, Kosi Gerald