STUDENT GROUP PETITIONS SRA/SUG FROM BARRING NEW MEMBERS FROM THEIR RIGHT TO CONTEST FOR DEMOCRATIC OFFICE.
In response to recent developments within the Student Representatives Council (SRA) and the Student Union Government (SUG) at the University of Abuja, a concerned group of students has initiated a petition aimed at safeguarding the democratic principles that underpin the institution.
The petition, drafted by a group under the identity of COALITION OF CONCERNED STUDENT OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ABUJA, highlights the attempt by a sect of the Student Representatives Council to introduce an amendment to the Student Union Government's constitution. The proposed amendment seeks to bar students who are not returning from contesting for the office of the SUG President, Vice President, Secretary and Clerk.
The concerned group, in addition to emphasizing the move's blatant contradiction to democratic principles, has presented a series of valid reasons that support their cause.
The proposed amendment has raised significant concerns within the student body. Foremost, it infringes upon the fundamental right of all students to participate in the democratic process and seek representation. The petitioners argue that every student should have the unfettered right to contest for any democratic office, irrespective of their academic status or future plans. Restricting the eligibility of potential candidates based solely on their decision not to seek re-election is a grave affront to the democratic values that the University of Abuja holds dear.
Moreover, the petition highlights the adverse implications of this amendment on the Student Union Government's functionality and diversity. By erecting barriers to new members aspiring for leadership positions, the amendment threatens to diminish the pool of potential candidates and deprive the student body of fresh perspectives and ideas. The proponents of the petition stress that a thriving democratic society necessitates a broad spectrum of voices, and any measures limiting participation directly contradict this principle.
The petition also underscores the dangerous precedent that this amendment sets for future constitutional changes. By introducing a provision that undermines democratic participation, it paves the way for further alterations without careful consideration of their impact on democratic principles and the rights of the student body. The constitution must serve as a robust framework, protecting the integrity of democratic processes, and any modifications should be undertaken with utmost circumspection.
The group firmly believes in upholding the core tenets of democracy and ensuring that all students' voices are heard and respected. "We advocate for a democratic environment where all students have the opportunity to participate in governance, fostering inclusivity and equitable representation," CHIBUZOR, Prince Ezeabata stated.
The petition has been submitted to the office of the Dean of Student Affairs, imploring the university administration to intervene and prevent the adoption of the proposed amendment. It seeks a resolution that preserves the democratic principles that have been a cornerstone of the University of Abuja.
The concerned group of students urges all members of the university student community to join hands in supporting the petition to protect the rights and democratic ideals that bind the academic institution together.
The petition was signed by Prince Ezeabata Chibuzor a student of Law, in copy of all Faculty Presidents, Departmental President, Security Unit, Chief Security Officer and the ELCOM 2023.
Correspondent - Abah Goodness Ojonoma, ACW-UA President.
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