By: Temidayo Atere
Editor: Rainat Ilemobayo
The Independent Students Electoral Committee (ISEC) of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo (RUGIPO), on Thursday, November 6, 2025, organized a Manifesto Presentation Program for aspirants contesting for various positions in the 2025/2026 Students’ Union Executive Council (SUEC) election.
The event, held at the institution’s 800-Seater Auditorium, ran from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and drew the attention of students from different departments who came to listen to the plans and visions of their preferred candidates.
The program began with the introduction of dignitaries, including the Dean of Students’ Affairs, Dr. OluIbrahimo Henry, and the Director of Students’ Affairs, Mr. Bayo Elebute. In their opening remarks, both leaders advised students to maintain orderliness, ask questions respectfully, and show support for all aspirants.
They also encouraged the students to enjoy the interactive process while embracing the spirit of unity, participation, and respect that defines the institution’s democratic culture.
Shortly after, the Independent Students’ Electoral Committee (ISEC) Chairman, Sen. Hope Jonathan, took the stage and delivered an inspiring address that set the tone for the day.
He described the manifesto presentation as a vital step in the democratic process, one that gives aspirants a platform to express their ideas and commitment to leadership. “A manifesto is more than words — it is a beacon of hope, a declaration of intent, and a call to action that ignites the flame of change. It defines purpose, inspires action, and unites people around shared values and vision,” he stated.
He further emphasized that leadership is not about titles but about ideas that inspire transformation and service.
Following the Chairman’s address, aspirants for various positions took turns presenting their manifestos. Each candidate passionately outlined their goals, focusing on improving student welfare, fostering unity, and enhancing academic excellence within the Polytechnic.
The atmosphere was charged with excitement as students listened attentively, applauded, and asked thoughtful questions, showing their eagerness to participate in shaping the future of the Students’ Union.
Among the presidential aspirants, Comrade Ajama Dein Desmond (Desmond 2K25) captured attention with his vision to redefine student unionism through unity, transparency, and purposeful leadership. He pledged to prioritize communication, inclusiveness, and welfare, aiming to rebuild and reposition RUGIPO’s unionism for greater impact.
Similarly, Comrade Onile Olaniyi Mayowa (Ola The Fountain Boy) promised to lead an inclusive and transparent union that would promote academic excellence, entrepreneurship, and collaboration between students and management. Both aspirants highlighted the need for accountability, teamwork, and proactive engagement to advance the collective interest of students.
Other aspirants vying for key offices also presented their manifestos, sharing innovative ideas to improve student life, welfare, and campus activities. From promises of better communication and transparent governance to plans for entrepreneurship development, sports promotion, and welfare programs, the presentations reflected a deep sense of commitment to service and progress.
The audience’s active engagement and applause underscored the growing enthusiasm among students toward participatory leadership and positive change.
In his closing address, ISEC Chairman Sen. Hope Jonathan reminded students of the upcoming Students’ Union election scheduled for Friday, November 7, 2025. He announced that only eligible electorates who have completed their biodata and screening would be able to access the electoral platform between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. He emphasized that these requirements are the sole criteria for voting, warning that those who fail to complete the process would not be allowed to cast their votes.
The Chairman also assured the student body that the electoral system has been fully secured, adding that all possible forms of hacking or manipulation have been curbed to ensure a free, fair, and credible election.
The event concluded with applause and cheers as students commended the aspirants for their courage, ideas, and commitment to leadership. The manifesto presentation not only provided a platform for dialogue between candidates and students but also reaffirmed RUGIPO’s commitment to transparent and democratic student governance. As the Polytechnic prepares for the election, the enthusiasm displayed at the event reflects a growing sense of political awareness and the institution’s dedication to nurturing responsible and visionary leaders for the future.
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