Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic SUG Condemns Alleged External Interference in Elections

The Students’ Union Government (SUG) of Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic, Zaria, has expressed strong concerns over alleged external interference in its upcoming elections. In a letter addressed to the executives of the National Association of Nigerian Students Joint Campus Committee (NANS JJC) Kaduna Axis, the union condemned the printing of newspapers that featured pictures of some contestants, describing it as a move that could cause division among students.

Signed by Comrade Abdullahi Zakari, the SUG President, the letter emphasized the institution’s commitment to maintaining independence and autonomy in conducting its internal affairs, including student elections. The SUG leadership firmly stated that any form of external involvement could undermine the integrity and credibility of the electoral process.

Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic, a state-owned institution established by the Kaduna State government, operates with its own internal mechanisms and procedures for student union elections. The union expressed surprise and concern upon discovering the publication featuring contestants' images, raising suspicions that NANS JJC Kaduna Axis might be attempting to influence the electoral process by supporting certain candidates.

The SUG has called on the NANS JJC Kaduna Axis to clarify its intentions regarding the newspaper publication and to refrain from any actions that could disrupt the institution’s internal democratic process. The union stressed that such interference could generate unnecessary tension and conflict among students.

Furthermore, the letter has been copied to relevant authorities, including the Department of State Services (DSS), the National Association of Kaduna State Students (NAKASS), the NANS National body, and the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) National body, to ensure the matter is appropriately addressed.

The SUG President reaffirmed the union’s commitment to conducting a free, fair, and transparent election while urging all stakeholders to respect the institution’s autonomy. He also appealed for a peaceful and orderly electoral process, warning against any external influence that could jeopardize the democratic rights of the students.

The controversy surrounding the upcoming SUG election at Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic continues to generate discussions, with students and stakeholders keenly observing further developments. The institution remains resolute in upholding its democratic principles and ensuring a smooth electoral process free from external pressures.