A New Era for Great Ife: Will Dr. Bush Surpass Expectations?

The President of the Great Ife Students’ Union, Omoboriowo Isaac Oluwadamilola, popularly known as Dr. Bush, have just been inaugurated along with other members of the Central Executive Council, Students’ Representative Council, and the Hall Executive Council members today, Thursday, 8th August, 2024. The anticipation among the Great Ife Students for the upcoming administration is palpable, with their high expectations for a transformative era under his administration. As the students eagerly awaits the new administration of the Students’ Union, they are also optimistic about the positive changes and advancements which the Dr. Bush-led administration will bring to the Union.

Taking a look back at the previous administration led by Abass Akinremi Ojo, also known as Lordfem, you could recall the promises made that resonated deeply with students’ aspirations. He pledged to enhance the campus experience for all students by introducing initiatives that would create a more vibrant and engaging environment. His commitment to addressing the monopolistic practices of businesses, particularly the town-gboro and okada riders, struck a chord with the student body, promising a fairer and more student-friendly campus ecosystem.

Lordfem also emphasized the importance of inclusivity in his administration, vowing to create platforms for students to voice their opinions and actively participate in decision-making processes. His dedication to understanding and addressing the challenges faced by the students reflected a genuine desire to uphold the spirit of ‘Aluta’ and prioritize the welfare of the Great Ife community.

Upon assuming office, he encountered a significant test of his leadership when the management proposed a hike in school fees. In a bold move, Lordfem’ Administration of the Students’ union vehemently opposed the decision, showcasing a resolute commitment to standing up for the student body’s interests. While they were unable to completely reverse the fee increment, their efforts led to a partial reduction, showcasing a commendable display of ‘Aluta’ in action.

However, questions and observations arose regarding the extent to which Lordfem’s administration fulfilled its promises beyond the fee issue – questions such as; Did the administration truly implement initiatives that enhanced student scholarships, combat monopolistic practices, and improve the wellbeing of the Great Ife Students? Another fundamental observation raised was the Students’ Union building renovated by General Lucky Irabor, an alumnus of the university, which was partially defaced during his tenure. As the Electoral Commission took over, many defects were noticed in the SUB including damaged chairs, exposed circuit cables and abandoned restrooms.

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The ineptitude maintenance culture which resulted in the defaced state of the building under Lordfem’s administration highlight the setback in upholding his commitments to sustainability. Furthermore, instead of sponsoring more educational-oriented programs, bringing onboard initiatives beneficial to the student body, enhancing scholarships and partnering with stakeholders in implementing progressive initiatives, rather, Lordfem’s administration was taciturn except during the widely publicized ‘VEC’ week.

As Isaac Omoboriowo Oluwadamilola, popularly known as Dr. Bush, got sworn in, the Great Ife community is in high expectations and curious to see what he will bring on board. The students are eager to see if Dr. Bush will truly walk his talk. However, the most critical question remains: Will Dr. Bush be able to implement all that is listed in his manifesto, or are they merely pieces of rhetoric designed to appeal to the students?

As he takes the oath of office, several other questions are bound to arise. Will he tackle the monopolistic hegemony of the town-gboro and okada riders, who charge exorbitant fees? Will he be able to clip the wings of business owners on campus to ensure fair pricing? Can he curb the menace of sexual assault and harassment that has recently become rampant on campus? Will he promote and implement student-centric programs, implementing scholarships, and attract stakeholders to partner with the union in championing educational programs that will revive the academic vibrancy of Great Ife and restore its value among universities in Nigeria and beyond?

What measures will he introduce to ensure that indigent students receive scholarships to aid their studies? Regarding inclusivity and the enhancement of scholarship programs which are fundamental to reasonable students’ bodies, how does Dr. Bush intend to bridge the gap between the management and the student community? It is notable that he and his team has been involved in series of meetings and interventions with the management since his victory, and this is commendable. As the entire student community eagerly awaits the policies that Dr. Bush’s administration will bring on board, all eyes are on him and other executive members as they assume office on Thursday.

The Great Ife community is watchful and hopeful if Dr. Bush will be the potential messiah who will champion a new course and reawaken the spirit of ‘Aluta’. Will he rise to the occasion and fulfil the promises that have ignited the hopes of the Great Ife community in voting him? Only time will tell, but the anticipation is palpable. The entire Great Ife community is watching and eager to witness how the new administration will fare as it grabs the reins of power.

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