By Ighomuaye Lucky. O
Concerned financial members and stakeholders of the Ambrose Alli University (AAU) Alumni Association, Home Branch, have called for the immediate cancellation of the branch’s August 14, 2026 election, alleging widespread irregularities, disenfranchisement, intimidation and manipulation throughout the electoral process.
The demand was contained in a statement signed by Comr. Austine Onobhayedo, Comr. Dr. Z.U. Mamudu, Comr. Benedict Oseyomon, Comr. Okhiria Peace Okosun, Comr. Mrs. R.I. Egbon, Comr. Aidenojie Monday and Dr. Mrs. G.O. Ochie, on behalf of concerned financial members and stakeholders.
According to the group, the election was allegedly compromised from the outset by what they described as the unilateral appointment of the Electoral Committee (ELECO), repeated alterations to the electoral timetable, the choice of an election venue allegedly linked to one of the candidates, and the withholding of the voters’ register from members.
The stakeholders argued that the alleged lapses undermined the credibility, transparency and fairness of the electoral process, raising serious questions about the legitimacy of the outcome.
The members further alleged that more than 140 financial members were prevented from voting, while only 49 persons were reportedly included on a disputed voters’ list.
They also accused the electoral process of being marred by intimidation and heavy security presence, including armed police and soldiers.
According to the group, further controversy arose from discrepancies between the number of accredited voters and votes reportedly counted, with the election eventually becoming inconclusive.
They also questioned the release of conflicting results by the ELECO on the night of the election and the subsequent early-morning clarification.
The concerned members are demanding the nullification of the August 14 election, dissolution and reconstitution of the ELECO, recognition of the constitutional voting rights of all eligible financial members, and a comprehensive audit of the Home Branch’s finances covering the past five years.
They have given the Worldwide President and National Executive Council (NEC) seven days to address their grievances, warning that failure to do so could lead to withdrawal of subscriptions, formation of a parallel Home Branch, legal action and the creation of independent digital platforms for members.
The group also appealed to relevant institutions and stakeholders not to recognize any leadership emerging from what it described as a flawed and inconclusive election.
The group expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor of Ambrose Alli University, Prof. Mrs. Eunice Omonzijie, and the university management for what it described as their neutrality in the electoral process.
