Semester of change: Election fever hits campus as students prepare for the new

 

By Olufunmilola Oludare 

Picture Credit: UK Stat Authority 

In the foggy days of November and December, a unique political fever grips the university. Like a pandemic, it spreads, permeating the hardest of minds. It’s a familiar season of change, but this year feels different—a new variant of the same event seems to be unfolding.

Even as the skies remain shut tight with Harmattan’s harsh winds and unrelenting heat, the “political pandemic” thrives, unbarred by the elements. This is the season of belonging, a time when students strive to find their place in the sociopolitical fabric of the campus.

The university election season has transformed campus life into a vibrant ground of political awareness. Colourful flyers are plastered on every available surface, announcing the arrival of the student union, department, and faculty elections. Candidates’ slogans echo across the campus, reinforcing their plans for office and highlighting their proposed action points. Subtle campaign activities hum beneath the surface, giving this year’s election season an unprecedented level of intensity.

The heightened ambition is evident as three to four candidates vie for the same position, a reflection of the growing political consciousness within the student body. Following recent protests and the struggles of the Student Union to meet the welfare and demands of students, this election season feels more serious and sensitive than in previous years.

Yet, amidst the growing anticipation, the official election ban has not been lifted. With the elections scheduled for the 9th and 10th weeks of the semester, candidates have resorted to “creating awareness” to solidify their presence. If asked, a typical aspirant would deny campaigning outright, claiming only to be building awareness. This thinly veiled activity raises questions: where do we draw the line between campaigning and awareness?

This line has long been blurred, with aspirants often walking a fine line or crossing it. While adherence to rules is crucial, there’s a growing argument for reasonable exceptions in this highly competitive environment.

Second semesters are notoriously busy, filled with academic demands and extracurricular activities that can throw even the most organised plans off balance. For student politicians, the pressure is immense. Constant visibility is necessary to stay relevant, as the adage goes: “Out of sight is out of mind.”

Tomi, a 300-level law student, shares her perspective on the matter. “We are already in the second week of the second semester,” she notes. “I think it’s justifiable for anyone to go all out for their candidacy. Since the elections are in the 9th or 10th week of the semester, people need to know who they’re voting for.” Her argument reflects the urgency and ambition driving candidates at this stage.

As campaigns become subtle and gain momentum, the campus buzzes with political activity. Students are immersed in the excitement, with debates and discussions about manifestos and candidate profiles dominating informal gatherings. It’s a season where alliances are forged, and rivalries intensify, often redefining social dynamics on campus.

The campus-wide election fever is a reminder of the vitality and resilience of student politics. It highlights the growing awareness among young people about leadership and governance, even in microcosmic settings like universities. Yet, the process also reveals the need for balance—between ambition and adherence to rules, between visibility and discretion.

As the semester progresses, the stakes will rise, and the race for office will only become more intense. For now, the political season has injected new energy into campus life, creating an atmosphere of possibility and change.