IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS OF UNN

As we approach the SUG General elections of out great institution, it
is important we take not of certain matters which we need to consider
this electioneering period.
First is OUR COMMON INTEREST: We all need to remember that we are
first and most importantly, students of the prestigious University of
Nigeria, Nsukka and nothing at all is enough to divide us, not even
politics. Politics will come and go but UNN will remain. At the end of
the whole game, we will all go back to our academic pursuit. Thus, it
is important that we all place this binding force above the dividing
forces like the different faculties, departments, hostels, religious
and social organizations.

BEFORE THE ELECTIONS: It is important we remember that there is always
one winner in every game. So, while we hope for the best (victory at
the polls), let us also prepare for the worst (defeat). Whichever
comes our way, it is important we exercise our sportsmanship by
welcoming it with a grateful heart, extending a hand of fellowship to
all for the survival of the Den of Lions and they that dwell therein.

AFTER THE ELECTIONS: First, we must appreciate the fact that it is a
laudable feat to nurse an ambition and also pursue it with all your
heart to the point where your fate lies in the hands of the
electorate. Thus, it is important, as men of honour that we all put
heads together to build the university, not just for our own good but
for posterity. I therefore plead with all aspirants to prepare their
hearts to work together with whoever wins so we can achieve a UNN SUG
of our dream. No man is an island, and two heads are always better
than one. Those ideas you would have implemented if you win should not
be buried because you lost.
UNIONISM BEYOND OPPOSITION: I may not have a good details of the
history of student unionism but I believe it was not created for the
sole purpose of opposing the authorities that be. If it were, it would
not have survived till date. Thus, I wish to suggest that we consider
student unionism as an opportunity to exercise our brains and create
ideas which will help improve the lives of the students, enhance
academic excellence and create a more conducive environment for all.
The Student Union Government can as well channel ideas and plans to
the necessary authorities to improve the welfare of the students, and
it should help bridge the administration-student gap. After all, is
service and leadership not meant to be sacrificial? To those who will
emerge victorious, I plead with you all not to forget the plans and
programmes you have drawn out, and the promises you have made or are
making to us as these will remain the yardstick for judging your days
in office.

*COMMUNICATION IS GOLDEN: Finally, to the students (or electorates),
it is very important we do not let the incoming government to run on
their own. The incoming government will still be a failure if we as
the common students pretend they do not exist as they will continue to
run without our inputs. Thus, it is important we make effective use of
available channels which I believe the incoming will make available.
Some of the currently available channels include:
--Phone numbers of SUG officials
--Social networking media
--Departmental, Faculty and Hostel Notice Boards
It is important we make use of these channels as often as possible to
communicate our observations, complaints, greviances and
commendations. In doing this, however, it is also important that we be
constructive in our criticism with the aim of spurring our colleagues
in the SUG to do more.
Your Fellow Lion,
Okeke Chibueze O.