… Mixed Feelings Trail Its Pharmacy Students’ Elections

THE Pharmaceutical Association of Nigerian Students (PANS) UNIBEN chapter recently conducted its elections to usher in new executives. But the election did not go without the frills and thrills that follow such exercises.

The election was keenly contested by three aspirants; Alex Eze, Benjamin Idiakhoa and Ikechuckwu Onwuakpa, all 400 Level students.
However, it was gathered that the third aspirant, Onwuakpa was pressurised to drop his aspiration. But he refused.
His words: “Yes, I received calls to drop my bid. But I will not divulge the names of those who called me. I was told that I would divide the votes of the Igbo in the faculty. They wanted either Alex or me to run, and not the two of us at the same time. I refused because we had different plans for the association. Also, this is democracy, we have the right to vote and be voted. I never had any regrets for contesting. I feel fulfilled and my appreciation goes to all the 112 students, who voted for me. I, also, appreciate my campaign manager, Alex Otega and everyone who stood out for me.”

As the results were announced, the Faculty was thrown into celebration. Benjamin had 243 votes while Alex and Ikechukwu secured 201 and 112 votes respectively.

Commenting on Benjamin’s victory, Jude Usman stated that the faculty hadß received freedom as soon Benjamin was voted in. He said: “The change mantra that has swept the country has now had its effect on the Faculty of Pharmacy.”

The new executives are: Benjamin Idiakhoa (President), Courage Omoregbee (Vice President), Chinedu Ezenwachinemelu (Secretary General), Elvis Onyishi (Editor-in-chief), Aisosa Aisien (Treasurer), Ogonnaya Onyemachi (Financial Secretary), Nosakhare Osagiator (Director of Sports), Fidelis Umeodinka (Public Relations Officer), Raphael Odoh (Director of Socials I) and Fred Enomazin (Director of Socials II).
The Assistant Dean of Faculty of Pharmacy, Dr. Tony Waka has since inaugurated the elected offices.