ABSU Postpones 2025/2026 SUG Election Indefinitely Following Protest Over Disqualification of Presidential Aspirant
The management of Abia State University (ABSU), Uturu, has indefinitely postponed the 2025/2026 Students’ Union Government (SUG) election after a protest erupted over the disqualification of a presidential aspirant from the Faculty of Engineering.
In a press release issued on Saturday and signed by the university's Public Relations Officer, Dr. Chijioke Nwogu, the institution expressed dismay at what it described as a "sponsored protest" by some Engineering students and others from neighboring institutions. The protest disrupted the campus's peaceful academic environment.
The disqualified aspirant, Nicholas Emmanuel Chimaobi, a Mechanical Engineering student, was barred from contesting the SUG presidency by the Students’ Union Government Electoral Commission (SUGECO) on security grounds, according to the statement. Students had alleged the disqualification stemmed from his non-indigene status (not being from Abia State), sparking chants and placards such as “No Nicholas, No Election,” “We See Injustice, We Say No. Restore Nicholas,” and “With One Voice, We Ask For Reason.”
Rather than using internal redress mechanisms, the statement said Chimaobi mobilized protesters, prompting Vice-Chancellor Professor Ndukwe J. Okeudo to postpone the election to safeguard lives, property, and order on campus. A new election date will be announced later, with fresh aspirants allowed to apply for all positions.
The current SUG Executive Council will remain in office until a new one is elected, while the existing Electoral Committee has been dissolved and a new one will be constituted.
Management has launched an investigation into the security concerns behind Chimaobi's disqualification and his role in the protest. The university condemned actions that disrupt academic activities and undermine administration, urging students to pursue grievances through dialogue and lawful channels instead of protests that create tension.
“Management remains resolute in upholding its mandate and ensuring a peaceful, secure, and conducive learning environment, as well as equal opportunity for all, irrespective of ethnicity, religion, or social affiliation,” the statement read. It warned those instigating unrest to desist immediately and advised students to stay calm, law-abiding, and focused on academics.
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