BUK Warns Against External Interference in Forthcoming SUG Elections

Bayero University Kano (BUK) has issued a stern warning against external interference in the forthcoming Students' Union Government (SUG) elections. The Deanery of Student Affairs emphasized the university's commitment to ensuring free and fair elections conducted exclusively by and for current BUK students.

University's Official Position

In a statement issued on December 27, 2025, the Dean of Student Affairs, Professor Mukhtar Ridwanu Bunza, declared the administration's uncompromising commitment to supervising transparent elections that reflect the genuine will of current students only.

Prohibited External Influence

The university administration will not tolerate interference from:

• Former Executive Council (Exco) Members: Past SUG officials are prohibited from campaigning or influencing current elections
• Former Students ("Comrades"): Alumni who have graduated must not participate in or influence the electoral process
• Non-Students: Any individual who is not currently enrolled as a BUK student
• External Political Forces: Outside political groups or organizations

Requirements for Candidates

Eligibility Criteria

All prospective candidates must:

• Be current registered students of Bayero University Kano
• Solicit support exclusively from the current student body
• Respect all constitutional provisions of the electoral process
• Conduct campaigns without external backing or influence
• Maintain academic good standing

Campaign Guidelines

• Campaign only among current BUK students
• Use approved campaign methods and materials
• Avoid association with former excos or external groups
• Follow all electoral guidelines set by the university
• Maintain peace and order during the campaign period

Consequences of Violations

Automatic Disqualification: Candidates who associate with external forces or accept external influence will be immediately disqualified from the electoral process.

Additional consequences may include:

• Removal from the ballot
• Cancellation of candidacy
• Potential disciplinary action
• Loss of eligibility for future SUG positions

Why This Policy Matters

Protecting Student Democracy

• Genuine Representation: Ensures elected leaders truly represent current student interests
• Fair Competition: Levels the playing field for all candidates
• Student Autonomy: Preserves students' right to choose their own leaders
• Electoral Integrity: Maintains credibility of the democratic process

Preventing External Manipulation

• Stops former leaders from imposing their preferred candidates
• Prevents alumni from controlling current student affairs
• Blocks political godfatherism in student politics
• Ensures fresh perspectives and genuine student leadership

For Current Students

Your Rights

• Vote for candidates of your choice without external pressure
• Campaign freely for preferred candidates (if you're a current student)
• Report any external interference to university authorities
• Participate in free and fair elections

Your Responsibilities

• Reject attempts by former students or external groups to influence your vote
• Support only candidates running on their own merit
• Report violations of electoral guidelines
• Choose leaders based on competence and vision, not external backing

Electoral Process Integrity

The university administration is committed to:

• Monitoring all campaign activities for compliance
• Investigating reports of external interference
• Enforcing electoral guidelines strictly
• Ensuring transparency throughout the process
• Protecting the rights of all current students

Reporting Violations

Students who observe external interference should:

• Report immediately to the Deanery of Student Affairs
• Provide specific details and evidence if available
• Maintain confidentiality when reporting
• Cooperate with university investigations

Message to Candidates

The Dean of Student Affairs advised all candidates to:

• Run clean campaigns based on your own ideas and vision
• Seek support only from fellow current students
• Respect constitutional and electoral provisions
• Accept that elections should reflect the genuine will of current students
• Understand that external backing will lead to disqualification

For Enquiries

For information about the SUG elections:

• Contact: Deanery of Student Affairs, Bayero University Kano
• Campus: BUK Main Campus, Kano