By Ruth Joseph & Olamide Iwala
The Atmosphere is filled with mixed feelings as students react differently to the speeches of the aspirants at the 2026 debate and manifesto hearing of Adekunle Ajasin University Student Union Government candidates which was held at the Obasanjo multi-purpose hall (OBJ)
Reacting to the delivery manner of the aspirants, some students described them as “unprepared”, “rude”, and “unqualified”.
Oreoluwa Dada from the Faculty of Law said, "To be candid, no candidate is ready, this is my first time attending the manifesto, so it is very appalling to see people we want to elect into offices answer questions the way they did. Asking the financial secretary about transparency and accountability, he responds with, we have no right to access the financial reports or statement at the end of their tenure. It shows the lack of transparency. He hasn't been elected yet we can't even hold them accountable."
Speaking with a SUEC member who also commented on the delivery mannerisms of the aspirants, Mr. Ogunade Adebola Oluwakayode aka KayDivine said, "It could be because they haven't spoken to a large crowd like that before. I will say, what is needed on campus is an orientation for students towards participating in student unionism. If that can be inculcated into the orientation of the 100L students, maybe it will prepare lots of students for platforms like this. But then, since time immemorial, we have seen candidates perform woefully during debates so this is not the first." He added.
He made further comments on the effect this might have on the elections tomorrow and he is certain the supporters are very loyal.
In his words, "the truth is, this might not have an effect on their votes because their supporters are loyal, so whatever they do will not change their decision. Though for some percentage of voters, this will determine who they will vote for.
Overall the students are optimistic and in high spirits about what the outcome will be on the election day.
Simisola, 300- level also said, "We have seen that during campaigns on larger platforms, they make promises yet they fail. We hope these young ones will learn from the past and give the best service to their colleagues."
A 400-level student, Akogun Oluwole from the Mass Communication department expressed his satisfaction with the location and time.
According to him, “Compared to last year's manifesto and debate which was held at the Old RC, OBJ hall is more conducive and organized. There were enough seats for students to participate, know the aspirants, and relay their concerns.
