SUG 31st Administration’s Reforms: Bold Progress For Elitist Power Grab Disguised As Development?

By Faith Ebireri

As the 31st Students’ Union Government (SUG) administration of Delta State University (DELSU), led by Amb. Dr Onovughegor Augustine, flaunts several developmental projects, reforms, and initiatives, whispers on campus brand the 31st Administration as a velvet-gloved power play handpicking projects, comrades, and partnerships that crown prestige to the President’s inner circle.

Nevertheless, there is no denying the palpable progress achieved in the 16 months since the administration took office.

Key achievements include a significant reduction in faculty and departmental dues, easing the financial burden on students, and the complete refurbishment of the old SUG stand at Site II, Abraka Campus, now renamed in honour of the immediate past Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Andy Ogochukwu Egwunyenga.

Engagement with security personnel in the university environment has improved significantly, thanks to the efforts of the 31st Administration. As a result, harassment or arbitrary detention of DELSU students by law enforcement personnel has virtually ceased. This positive change stems from the collaborative understanding established between the student union and security agencies after several discussions since the administration took office.

There have been renovations across hostels on campus both in Site II and III, also the engagement with Hon. Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu (House Committee Chairperson on NDDC) regarding the abandoned NDDC hostel project in DELSU. The SUG President actively advocated for its completion.

The administration launched the Discounted Trip Initiative, enabling students to travel home affordably after examinations. There have been a wide range of leadership programmes, from health campaigns, to sporting events and social activities have been introduced to foster balanced academic, and social interactivity for personal development.

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Strategic partnerships with religious organisations for spiritual growth and with corporate entities such as Samsung further demonstrate a student-centred approach.

Having been part of several Students’ Union administrations in the past, specifically worked with five previous Students’ Union  Presidents, true to his words in his inaugural address on August 13, 2024, Dr. Onovughegor has led effectively with vision. In his words “Driven by a passion to serve with a difference… I challenged myself to heed to the clarion call… to take the mantle of leadership of the apex students’ body in the University, being aware that effective leadership can impact the overall interest of the University as a whole.”

In keeping with his manifesto, certificates of service will be issued to all who have held office, underscoring the administration’s emphasis on inclusivity and respect for institutional history.

The ongoing renovation of the SUG secretariat bears testimony to that commitment, for the first time in years, the building now enjoys full electrical wiring, lighting, and a functional borehole. The refurbished secretariat will be commissioned before the official handover to the next administration, with an awards ceremony recognising the service of past and present student leaders, alongside the unveiling of new projects.

Among the latest initiatives is the establishment of a digital café at Site III, Abraka Campus, near the small gate. The facility will offer photocopying, typing and printing services at heavily subsidised rates, further alleviating financial pressure on students.

Through these comprehensive, people-driven, and result-oriented initiatives, Dr. Onovughegor has set a high benchmark for future administrations. Whether history ultimately records the 31st SUG as a golden era of student-focused development or as an elegantly orchestrated consolidation of influence, its physical and policy legacies are already reshaping campus life at Delta State University.