Chinedu Okafor and Otitoju Femi
The Acting Vice-Chancellor of Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), Professor Olubunmi Shittu has charged the newly inaugurated Students Union executives to be an exemplary representative of the students body.
He said this at the inaugural ceremony of the newly elected Students Union Government executives on Friday 4th of July, 2025 as the University ushered in a new phase of students’ leadership.
The ceremony which took place at the Faculty of Arts Auditorium was attended by university management, government representatives, security officials, and members of the university community.
While charging the new students’ leaders, Professor Shittu urged them to be exemplary representatives of the students’ body.
He, however, admonished them to lead with integrity, empathy and accountability, warning against using the SUG platform for personal gain.
Professor Shittu, described the occasion as a significant milestone in the university’s leadership journey.
Professor Shittu said: “You are the voice of the voiceless, especially those whose concerns often go unheard.
“Build on the legacy of your predecessors and maintain the peace that has enabled us to enjoy a smooth academic calendar over the past four years.
“The era when students’ union is all about making money is gone. Be open, sensitive, and responsive to the needs of those you represent.”
“Investigate before you act. Our doors are open to your complaints.”
“Today marks another chapter of leadership in FUOYE. I welcome everyone and congratulate the newly elected SUG executives,”
Reflecting on the process that led to the event, Professor Shittu acknowledged the challenges encountered but expressed gratitude for the successful outcome.
Meanwhile, the oath of office was administered on the newly elected SUG President, Comrade James Iyanuoluwa Adio and other executive members as each pledged to uphold the university’s rules and work in the best interests of the students.
In his acceptance speech, Comrade Adio delivered a passionate message of unity and purpose.
He said: “Standing before you today is the son of nobody who is becoming somebody. Today marks not just the beginning of my leadership, but the continuation of our collective journey. “
The Better Days Agenda,” a student-centered plan designed to address pressing welfare challenges, pledging cooperation with the university management and called on his fellow executives to embrace integrity and teamwork.
Acknowledging his fellow contestants, Adio said: “I see not opposition but potential collaborators. Let us work together to build the FUOYE of our dreams.”
In a post-inauguration interview with FUOYENews, the SUG President emphasized his familiarity with students’ concerns, particularly on issues like accommodation and transportation, saying he was ready to assemble a capable team to tackle these challenges.
He went on: “These things are not new to me. I’ve served as a faculty library officer and vice-president, so I understand students’ needs.”
In a goodwill message, Comrade Modupe Adetiba, Senior Special Assistant to the Ekiti State Governor on Student Engagements, commended the new executives and urged them to uphold integrity and fairness.
She said: “SUG leadership has evolved beyond ‘aluta’ to a position of influence and responsibility. We believe Adio’s administration will bring greater collaboration between students, the university, and the community.”
The University’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Bolanle Opoola, acknowledged the tension which surrounded the electoral process but thanked God for a peaceful resolution.
“I will congratulate you at the end of your tenure if you succeed without disrupting the academic calendar. Let your leadership be remembered for peace, not crisis,” he said.
Speaking on the expectations of the university for the newly inaugurated Students’ Union Government (SUG) executives, the Dean of Students’ Affairs, Prof. Wasiu Oyedokun-Ali expressed delight at the peaceful conduct of the election and praised all contestants for exhibiting exemplary leadership.
Besides, he appreciated the university management, being led by the Acting Vice-Chancellor, for creating an enabling environment that ensured the smooth success of the electioneering process, noting that the management team was actively on ground throughout the exercise.
However, Prof. Oyedokun emphasized that the university placed high priority on the welfare and comfort of its students, and reiterated the institution’s commitment to fostering a conducive academic environment.
He congratulated the new SUG leadership, led by Comrade Adio and encouraged them to maintain the institution’s reputation as one of the fastest-growing universities in Nigeria owing to its stable academic calendar and student-friendly policies.
While advising the new leadership on governance, the Dean cautioned against confrontation or disruptive actions, noting that although differences might arise, they should be addressed through consultation and constructive dialogue.
Prof. Oyedokun-Ali concluded by urging the executives to remain united and focused on serving the collective interest of students.
He said: “There should be no rancour or rascalism; disagreements should be resolved amicably in the spirit of partnership.”
“I want to enjoin you to work very hard and always uphold the students’ interest at heart, while closing ranks and work together as a team to ensure you succeed in office.”
Notable dignitaries in Attendance were Professor Isaac Busayo who is the University Librarian, Mr. Wapji, who represented the Bursar, Professor Chika Azogua, Dean of the Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, Dr. Olawale Musbau who is the University Medical Director, the university PRO, Mr. Foluso Ogunmodede, CSP E.A. Ogundiran, Oye-Ekiti Command, Officers of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps.
Photo Credit: Toye Fisher
