Abia Varsity explains students’ union protest over disqualification of presidential aspirant
Abia State University officials responded to a protest by Engineering students regarding the disqualification of a presidential candidate in the Students’ Union Government elections.
The management of Abia State University has addressed what it termed a sponsored protest by some Engineering students, who reacted to the disqualification of a presidential aspirant from their faculty in the upcoming Students’ Union Government elections. The disqualification was based on the student's non-residency in Abia State, which is a requisite for eligibility. The university clarified that the Electoral Commission made the decision on security grounds, highlighting its commitment to maintaining a safe and stable environment within the institution.
In the official press release, signed by Public Relations Officer Chijioke Nwogu, the university expressed concern that instead of utilizing the internal redress mechanisms available for such grievances, the disqualified student chose to rally support from peers to disrupt university activities. This behavior was deemed unacceptable, as it undermines the academic atmosphere and can lead to further complications during the electoral process.
The administration's stance emphasizes the importance of abiding by electoral rules and maintaining order in student governance, particularly as the university seeks to uphold the integrity of its electoral processes. With the election looming, the university's management is under pressure to ensure that all candidates are validly qualified and to mitigate any unnecessary disturbances that could arise from politically charged actions.