A senior lecturer at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Prof. Ifeanyichukwu Abada, has stepped into the fray of controversies surrounding the recent election of the University’s Governing Council members.
The exercise has sparked waves of protests and petitions, with segments of the Alumni Association discrediting the process.
The discontent boiled over as alumni members staged a public protest, demanding the cancellation of the elections.
Yet, in a statement issued to journalists, Prof. Abada, a former chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), UNN chapter, presented a contrasting narrative, asserting that the process was credible.
He praised the University’s leadership under General Ike Nwachukwu (rtd.), the Pro-Chancellor, and Professor Polycarp Emeka Chigbu, the Acting Vice-Chancellor, for their stewardship during the Governing Council elections.
“Their efforts ensured a process that was widely regarded as free, fair, and credible,” Abada noted.
He emphasized that stakeholders including academic and non-teaching staff, alumni, and the broader university community commended the administration for prioritizing inclusivity and fairness in determining Governing Council representatives.
One highlight of the election, according to Abada, was the innovative use of technology, which he described as a “game-changer for Alumni engagement.”
Engr. Emeka Udoh emerged as the Convocation Representative for the Governing Council, marking a milestone in the university’s embrace of digital transformation.
“For the first time, UNN alumni from across the globe could participate in the electoral process, breaking geographical barriers and ensuring unprecedented inclusivity,” Abada stated.
“Alumni from all continents actively engaged in the election, demonstrating the enduring bond they share with their alma mater.”
He lauded the digital voting platform for its user-friendliness and accessibility, noting that it overcame logistical hurdles that often hinder participation.
“The secure and verifiable nature of the system guaranteed a credible outcome, setting a new standard for future elections,” he added.
Other representatives elected during the process included Professors Ejim Emmanuel Chukwudi, Idika Kalu Idika, Attamah Anthony, and Agwu Ekwe Agwu as Senate Representatives.
Meanwhile, Mr. Temple Onwukwe was elected as the Congregation Representative for Non-Teaching Staff, and Professor Onyishi Ike emerged as the Congregation Representative for Teaching Staff.