Petition for Disqualification: Group calls for Zulkarnain Abdulrahman Olaniyi’s Candidacy

The Electoral Committee / National Executive Council
Ilorin Emirate Students’ Union (IESU)
National Headquarters
Petition Against the Candidature of Zulkarnain Abdulrahman Olaniyi (Al-Opolowy) from Al-Hikmah University
Date: 22nd of May 2025
Dear Sir,
I write as a concerned stakeholder and member of the Ilorin Emirate Students’ Union (IESU), in accordance with the provisions of the IESU Constitution and in the spirit of upholding the integrity and credibility of our union’s electoral process.
It has come to my notice that one of the aspirants for the position of National President, Zulkarnain Abdulrahman Olaniyi (Al-Opolowy), who is contesting from Al-Hikmah University, is currently in his final semester with less than two (2) months left to graduate.
According to the IESU National Constitution, it is clearly stated that:
“Any candidate aspiring for a national position must have at least one (1) section remaining in his/her academic program at the time of election.”
This constitutional clause was instituted to ensure continuity, accountability, and effective representation of members by elected officers who will remain bona fide students throughout their tenure.
Given that Mr. Zulkarnain is nearing the end of his academic program and has less than the required one semester left, his eligibility to contest for the office of National President is null and void under the current constitution. Allowing his candidacy to continue will not only violate the union’s laws but also set a dangerous precedent that undermines the rule of law and fairness.


Prayer:
I hereby call on the Electoral Committee and relevant constitutional bodies to:
- Immediately disqualify Mr. Zulkarnain Abdulrahman Olaniyi from contesting for the position of National President;
- Ensure strict adherence to the constitutional provisions guiding eligibility for all aspirants;
- Uphold the integrity and values of the Ilorin Emirate Students’ Union.
I trust that justice and due process will prevail.
Yours faithfully,