IMSU Elects New Students Union Govt Through Electronic Voting

By Grace Chigbu

Imo State University (IMSU) has embraced the digital age with the recent election of the 18th Republic Student Union Government (SUG) through electronic voting. This groundbreaking event took place on Thursday, 27th July 2023. Students cast their votes from various locations around the globe through the institution’s website, marking a significant shift in the democratic process.

The electronic voting began early that day, attracting a total of 8,995 accredited voters. Starting at 11a.m and concluding at 3p.m, students utilized their mobile devices, internet access, and unique school identification numbers to participate.

Prof. Mrs. Chinyere Nneka Ukaga, the dean of student affairs, observed the process alongside representatives from the State Government, former SUG executives, and 17th Republic SUG President, Oguike Arinze Aristotlee. Officials from UNESCO, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), and various faculty representatives were also present.

The election’s results were definitive. Okwaraji Chidera, known as DERA, secured the position of SUG President with 1,060 votes. The Vice President role was won by Chukwunenye Mmesoma (MAMA), who received 1,646 votes. In addition, Agomuoh Favour (FiFi) emerged as the Vice President (External) with 1,483 votes.

Other elected executives included Lawrence Austin (PEN), the new General Secretary with 773 votes, and Ohamara Bright (NOTE), who garnered 1,476 votes. Director of Information, a position now held by Enukoha Peace (NUKKY247MEDIA), received 1,098 votes. Ehirim Chibuike (IMSU CONNECT) managed to secure 459 votes, while Ewelike Chisom (BLINKS FM) and Mgbengasa Promise (GASA MEDIA) received 561 and 415 votes, respectively.

Njemanze Cynthia (BINANCE) triumphed as the Director of Finance with 1,282 votes, closely followed by Ogu Kelechi (OPAY) with 1,261 votes. The position of Assistant General Secretary went to Ajaereh Uchenna, who received 1,113 votes.

Moreover, the Director of Sports is now Emmanuel Chigozie (WAN-B), with a solid 1,551 votes. The highest vote went to Nwachukwu Nnaemeka (GLK), the new Director of Transport, who scored an impressive 2,066 votes. Onuoha Christian, with 1,634 votes, became the Treasurer, while Thunder Righteous, who won 1,662 votes, is the new Director of Environment. Lastly, the role of Director of Health was taken by Egwim Divine (FMC), receiving a notable 1,807 votes.

The election results, confirmed by the ICT database, have affirmed the democratic spirit of IMSU students. The newly elected SUG executives, representing a variety of departments and interests, are expected to lead the university’s student body effectively. This historic event, marked by the implementation of electronic voting, has set a precedent for future student elections at Imo State University and beyond.