By Ozioruva Aliu

BENIN CITY – THE National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Joint Campus Council (JCC), Edo State Axis on Monday expressed its support for the intervention of the NANS National President, Comrade Akinteye Babatunde calling for the conduct of Student’s Union Government (SUG) election in the University of Benin (UNIBEN).

This position was contained in a statement issued in Benin City by the ‎NANS JCC Chairman , Edo State, Comrade Yakubu Odion where he said that the continued absence of an elected SUG at UNIBEN raised legitimate concerns about the representation of students and their opportunity to choose leaders who can effectively communicate their interests to the university management.

He said while recognising the authority of the Vice Chancellor and the management of the University to regulate activities in the school to ensure law and order, they should not be done to the detriment of the students.

According to him, “We consider the National President’s position a necessary intervention on an issue that directly concerns the democratic rights and representation of Nigerian students.

“We also call for the restoration of SUG dues to ensure that student representation is adequately funded and that elected student leaders have the necessary resources to discharge their responsibilities effectively. The payment and administration of these dues must be handled transparently and in the best interests of the students.

“We recognise the authority of the Vice-Chancellor and the responsibility of the university management to maintain order. However, such authority must also be exercised with due regard for students’ legitimate interests and their right to participate in student governance.

“The purpose of university education extends beyond academic instruction; it should also prepare young people for responsible citizenship, democratic participation, and leadership. It is therefore inconsistent to teach democratic values while leaving students without a clear opportunity to elect their own representatives.”

The Edo state NANS JCC called on the University authority to take i”mmediate concrete steps” towards conducting a credible, transparent, and inclusive SUG election in the school.

“Our position should not be misconstrued as an attempt to create hostility between the student community and the university authorities. We believe in constructive engagement and respect for institutional processes. However, dialogue must lead to tangible outcomes, particularly where the rights and interests of students are concerned. The university management should recognise that an elected student leadership serves the interests of both students and the institution by providing a legitimate channel for communication, consultation, and the peaceful resolution of concerns.”