Calls on management to respect student democracy, electoral independence
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Joint Campus Council (JCC), Ondo Axis, has condemned the reported dissolution of the Students’ Union executives of the College of Health Technology, Akure, and the subsequent establishment of a caretaker committee to oversee the affairs of the union.
The association described the development as troubling and inconsistent with the principles of democratic participation, fair representation and responsible student unionism.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Comr. Abiodun Victor; General Secretary, Comr. Elusoji Samuel Temitope, popularly known as Spirit; and Public Relations Officer, Comr. Bamidele Oluwafemi, also known as Kuti, the association questioned the justification for dissolving the elected executives, particularly as an election had reportedly been scheduled and the transition process had commenced.
NANS JCC Ondo Axis maintained that an elected Students’ Union derives its mandate from the student community and that any decision to terminate such a mandate must be backed by constitutional provisions, due process and compelling justification.
The association also expressed concern over reports that the college management was considering another postponement of the union election despite the constitution of an electoral committee and the commencement of the transition process.
It warned that any further disruption could undermine students’ confidence in the institution and raise questions about the management’s commitment to restoring democratic representation.
According to the statement, the electoral committee should be allowed to discharge its responsibilities independently and in accordance with the union’s constitution and established electoral guidelines, without undue interference.
The association stressed that student unionism remained an important platform for leadership development, accountability, democratic participation and the protection of students’ collective interests.
It consequently called on the management of the College of Health Technology, Akure, to provide a clear explanation for the dissolution of the elected executives and the establishment of the caretaker committee.
NANS further urged the management to respect the democratic aspirations of the students, safeguard the independence of the electoral process and refrain from actions capable of frustrating the restoration of an elected Students’ Union.
“Our position is clear: NANS JCC Ondo Axis will not support actions that unjustifiably undermine elected student representation, compromise electoral independence or diminish the spirit of student unionism,” the statement declared.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to defending the interests of Nigerian students and engaging relevant authorities to ensure that students of the institution were treated fairly and allowed to exercise their right to democratic self-representation.
