SUG Speaker Ogunsaki Samuel Defends 'Senate President' Title, Proposes Constitutional Transition to Senate
The Speaker of the Students' Union Government (SUG) House of Representatives, Osun State Polytechnic, Iree ( OSPOLY ), Dist. Sen. Comrade Samuel Ogunsaki, has defended his adoption of the title "Senate President," revealing that the legislative arm is working towards transforming the House of Representatives into a Senate through constitutional procedures.
Ogunsaki disclosed in an exclusive interview with the NEB Correspondence, stating that the proposed transition is aimed at aligning the institution's student legislature with established legislative practices.
According to him, the House of Representatives serves as the highest legislative authority in the Students' Union Government and should appropriately be recognised as the House of Senate, popularly referred to as the Red Chamber.
"Normally, the House of SUG should be the House of Senate because it is the highest authority in the Students' Union. We can also call it the Red Chamber," he said.
He disclosed that plans are underway to officially rename the legislative body as the House of Senate, while the Students' Representative Council (SRC) would become the Students' Senatorial Council, subject to the approval of constitutional amendments.
Responding to criticisms over his use of the title "Senate President" before any constitutional amendment, Ogunsaki explained that his decision was informed by consultations with former legislative leaders and existing legislative traditions.
The student lawmaker described the legislature as the watchdog of the Students' Union Government, noting that its primary responsibility is to promote accountability, transparency and good governance while representing students across all departments and faculties.
Reflecting on his administration's achievements, Ogunsaki identified the recently concluded Legislative Summit as one of its major milestones, saying the programme was organised to expose students to legislative procedures, democratic values and responsible leadership.
He commended the Dean of the Faculty of Information and Communication Technology (FICT), Dr. Idowu Akinrosoye, and other guest speakers for delivering impactful lectures.
"The students accepted the programme. I even had to listen to the lecture again when I got home," he said.
Ogunsaki also praised the success of the recently concluded SUG Trade Fair, noting that the event recorded no cases of violence or disorder because of proper planning and coordination.
Speaking on preparations for the forthcoming Students' Union election, the Speaker expressed confidence that the electoral process would be free, fair and credible.
He dismissed claims that the Polytechnic Management had endorsed a preferred candidate, describing such allegations as baseless.
"There is nothing like a management candidate. If you are fit to be there, you will get there. If you are not fit, you won't," he stated.
He also welcomed the planned inauguration of the Independent Students' Electoral Commission (ISEC), saying it would strengthen students' confidence in the electoral process. However, he clarified that the responsibility for inaugurating the commission rests with the Polytechnic Management, not the legislature.
On balancing leadership with academics, Ogunsaki admitted that student leadership demands significant sacrifices.
"Student Union leadership comes with enormous responsibilities. It is not easy because while others are in class receiving lectures, I am attending to leadership matters," he said.
The Speaker further disclosed that he personally financed several legislative activities, including the Legislative Summit, to ensure their successful execution.
"To organise that kind of summit in a structured and successful manner, I used my personal funds," he revealed.
Clarifying misconceptions about the welfare of student leaders, Ogunsaki stated that SUG executives and legislators do not receive salaries but only stipends.
"We are not being paid salaries. We receive what we call a stipend, and even that is not enough. Imagine collecting ₦10,000 once in three months," he said.
He advised aspiring student leaders to understand the demands and sacrifices associated with public service before seeking elective positions, stressing that effective leadership requires commitment, accountability and selflessness.
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