The Lagos State University (LASU) Security Department successfully facilitated the signing of a Peace Accord among candidates vying for positions in the upcoming Students’ Union elections.
The signing ceremony, held on Tuesday, 30th July 2024, at the Senate Conference Room, Senate Building, main campus, Ojo, Lagos, marks a significant milestone in promoting harmony and sportsmanship among the aspirants.
Chief Security Officer, CSP Oluwole Ojo (Rtd), who led the proceedings, assured the candidates of a secure and hitch-free electoral process. He emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and discipline, urging all aspirants to shun violence and criminal activities before, during, and after the elections.
His message was clear: the security unit is committed to creating a safe environment for all participants.
Dr. Abiodun Fatai-Abatan, Dean of the Student Affairs Division, echoed these sentiments, advising the aspirants to adhere strictly to the election guidelines.
He emphasized the importance of following due process and seeking redress through appropriate channels if dissatisfied with the election outcomes. Dr. Fatai-Abatan underscored the necessity for a free and fair election, devoid of any form of partiality.
Deputy Registrar Senate Division, Mr. Lawal, also addressed the aspirants, calling on the Independent Electoral Committee to maintain neutrality and transparency throughout the election process.
He appealed to the candidates to uphold a spirit of camaraderie, ensuring a collaborative and peaceful election environment.
Adding a scholarly perspective, Director of the Directorate of Special Interventions, Prof. Oseni Taiwo Afisi, advised the aspirants to respect their opponents and engage in non-violent communication. He highlighted the importance of tolerance and mutual respect in fostering a positive electoral experience.
Dr. Joseph Ayeni, Head of the Career and Counseling Unit, urged the candidates to exemplify competence, commitment, and character both during and after the elections.
LASU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, commended the students for their willingness to serve their peers.
She encouraged them to accept the election outcomes graciously and assured them that the university management remains neutral, with no preferred candidates.
Key security personnel present at the ceremony included Mr. R. S. Balogun, Operation Officer II; Mr. K. T. Aworonsu, O/C Parade/Discipline & Training; Mr. W. A. Fayemi, Assistant Chief Security Coordinator (Periscope); Mr. A. B. Edu, O/C Security Investigation & Enforcement Unit; Mr. M. B. Tokosi, O/C Marshal; and Mr. Gbotemi. The LASUSU Independent Electoral Committee was represented by Chairman Mr. Salami Mubarak Oriyomi and Secretary Agbabiaka Abdul Hameed.
The election, which will determine the new president and other executives across all faculties and colleges, is scheduled for Thursday, 1st August 2024, and will take place across all LASU campuses: Ojo, Ikeja, and Epe.