The Seat was Never Free - CNF

I have heard great rumours from the elders of old that if one is after the chair, he or she must be ready to leave his life for it.

I have also heard from my colleagues that if I was really after the chair, what price was I going to pay?

I have also heard from the excos that the chair is for the rich.

My family and siblings asked: what is the benefit of enjoyment that lasts for a year?

These were the circumstances I faced before going as a candidate for the ASSON president of the 2025 set. The chairman of the committee had the privilege to have a car, a rapport with the governor, a direct relationship with the vice chancellor, and the use of a student union car — all for one year.

Those who were vying for that position had money to spend; they were ready to bribe their way through. But what did I have?

What did I have? I had one of the best CGPAs amongst the intending participants. Moreso, I was not alone in the battle. I had my friends too. They always encouraged me. They guaranteed that they would support me. However, I knew that their support was not enough because I hadn't paid the price.

I had to meet the electoral body, just like my opponents Peter Piper and Bukola Oyemeran. It was now a tradition for them in this institution. I had to sit on that presidential chair and run student politics.

Immediately, Shola, aka Badoo, spoke up. He would sponsor me. Bisola, Kunle and many others shouted hurray... We were over the moon. Everybody knows that Badoo is a growing musician. But thank God, Peter was able to give a reasonable response.

I remembered starting with the word: "All goals on the road to achievement cannot be achieved without discipline and consistency." I continued with another leadership quote by Mandela: "It always seems impossible until it's done." I also added another by Du Bois: "The most important thing to remember is this: to be ready at any moment to give up what you are for what you might become." After talking about my agenda and what I had for the department.

Immediately after finishing the speech, my friends asked some questions that they knew I had answers to. However — and I mean however — my opponents' supporters asked shocking questions. One said that I was dating one of the newbies. I immediately said: if there be any newbie that I am dating or have dated, let them come out. No one. Facts speak. Another said that my CGPA was equally low. I told him: check the top of the class list which was published yesterday — I am one. I am qualified for this position.

Immediately, other questions flooded in until my time was up.

Finally, the day of election came. Different banners were positioned.

I saw Peter come in with some people. Towards the end of the election, rumours said that they were given 1,000 naira to vote for him. I fell down on my knees... almost sobbing because they were many.

Soon the election came to an end. My vote was initially not leading. Out of about 50, Peter had votes, I was probably on my 5. My opponent was really happy! Then all of a sudden, my name began to appear! Phamzy, Phamzy, Phamzy... As if hope was ignited.

After which I won the election. I was over the moon. I rolled on the floor thanking Almighty God...

God did it... I won...

My opponent went out but later congratulated me via social media.

At last, I saw the seat and I sat on it. Yes, the presidential seat.

First, I celebrated the win with a party. I invited Badoo. Surely, he drew crowds and people from far and near.

The next day, I began to address the newbies. Some said that they needed past questions. Some needed money for school fees and many more. We ensured that everyone was not having any issue. We organized marathon tutorials a month before the exam.

Additionally, we didn't quit! We also went to meet the lecturer about the difficulties that some of these kids were facing.

I ensured that the online library was functional. Additionally, I delivered mnemonics for the kids to use.

These beautiful people were glad. They were nice and happy.

In the end, my tenure as ASSON president became one of the most memorable in the department's history. What started as a journey filled with doubt, rumours, and seemingly insurmountable odds turned into a legacy of service, resilience, and transformation. I learned that the chair was never truly for the rich or the powerful — it was for those willing to pay the price of sacrifice, discipline, and unwavering commitment to the people they served. As I handed over the presidential seat to my successor a year later, I did so with a heart full of gratitude and a mind at peace, knowing that I had not just sat on the chair, but I had earned it.

Thank @theinkwell, @ecency and @curie for the spport
Bye!!!!

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