Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU) SUG Vice Presidential candidate, Jonathan Uchechi Precious, has shared her experience following the recently concluded Students' Union Government election, describing the journey as challenging, inspiring, and deeply revealing.
According to Precious, exactly two months before the election, she publicly declared her intention to contest for the position of SUG Vice President. Despite facing discouragement from several quarters, she remained steadfast, driven by her passion for service and desire for positive change.
One of the major hurdles she encountered was contesting against a returning aspirant who had previously run for the same position. Many believed the opponent would naturally attract sympathy and support from students.
Additionally, Precious noted that her late declaration, barely two months before the election, was considered a disadvantage by many observers.
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Throughout the campaign period, she received numerous suggestions to pursue other positions, particularly that of Assistant Secretary General (ASG). However, she maintained that her goal was singular and unwavering: the office of Vice President.
As the campaign progressed, Precious said she focused on rebuilding students' trust in the Student Union Government, promoting hope for a better campus experience, and advocating for value-driven leadership across academic, moral, spiritual, and financial spheres.
She also described herself as a friend students could rely on—one who understood their concerns and worked to bridge the gap between students and the SUG.
Following the university's internal screening process and external security clearance by the Department of State Services (DSS), several aspirants were reportedly disqualified over issues ranging from misconduct and low academic performance to security concerns. The delayed release of screening results heightened tension among contestants and supporters. Eventually, Precious was cleared and officially became a candidate.
Campaign activities intensified as election day approached. The election, conducted through an electronic voting system, had initially been scheduled for May 27 but was postponed to May 29 due to public holidays. On the rescheduled date, technical difficulties disrupted voting, forcing organizers to suspend the process and move it to May 30.
When voting finally commenced on May 30, Precious stated that early results showed her maintaining a significant lead.
However, she alleged that irregularities later emerged as vote patterns suddenly shifted in favor of her opponent. According to her, the voting platform experienced unusual activity, prompting engineers to temporarily shut down and relaunch the system. Despite these interventions, concerns over the integrity of the process persisted until voting concluded.
Although disappointed by the final outcome, Precious expressed gratitude to students who supported her vision. She emphasized that many students witnessed the events firsthand and would draw their own conclusions regarding the conduct of the election.
Reflecting on the broader implications, she questioned how young people could develop confidence in democratic systems when concerns about fairness arise even within student politics. She argued that the credibility of smaller institutions plays a crucial role in shaping perceptions of larger national democratic processes.
Despite the setback, Precious remained optimistic about the future.
"I am bigger, I am better, and I still remain the best. I believe there are greater opportunities ahead."
She also extended congratulations to all successful candidates and reaffirmed her commitment to serving the student community.
"I remain with the students and for the students. MOUAU is still Precious."