A senior lecturer in the University of Nigeria Nsukka, UNN, Prof Ifeanyichukwu Abada has waded into the controversies surrounding the recent election of members of the University’s Governing Council.
Media Talk Africa reports that there have been protests and petitions over the outcome of the exercise, with some members of the Alumni Association discrediting the exercise.
The Alumni members recently staged a protest, calling for a cancellation of the exercise.
However, in a statement made available to journalists, Abada, a former chairman of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, UNN chapter, said the exercise was credible.
He said the University, under the leadership of General Ike Nwachukwu (rtd.), the Pro-Chancellor, and Professor Polycarp Emeka Chigbu, the Acting Vice-Chancellor, successfully concluded the Governing Council elections.
“Their efforts ensured a process that was widely regarded as free, fair, and credible.
“Stakeholders, including academic staff, non-teaching staff, alumni, and the broader university community, commended the administration for prioritizing inclusivity and fairness in determining representatives for the Governing Council.
Abada singled out what he called digital innovation, which he said was a game-changer for Alumni engagement.
Engr Emeka Udoh was elected Convocation Representative for the Governing Council and according to Abada, “the Convocation election marked a significant leap in the university’s embrace of technology.
“For the first time, UNN alumni from across the globe could participate in the electoral process, breaking geographical barriers and ensuring unprecedented inclusivity.
“Alumni from all continents actively engaged in the election, demonstrating the enduring bond they share with their alma mater.
“The digital voting platform was user-friendly and accessible, removing logistical challenges that often deter participation.
“The secure and verifiable nature of the system guaranteed a credible outcome, setting a new standard for future elections.”
Others elected included: Senate Representatives- Professor Ejim Emmanuel Chukwudi, Professor Idika Kalu Idika, Professor Attamah Anthony and Professor Agwu Ekwe Agwu, as well as Congregation Representatives- Mr. Temple Onwukwe for Non-Teaching Staff, and Professor Onyishi Ike as the Congregation Representative for Teaching Staff.
