ASUP Cooperative FedPolyNek Elects New Executive: Dr. Tony Osuji-Led Team Pays Courtesy Visit to Rector

By Noble Uchegbu Uchechukwu Zachariah

Special Assistant to the Rector on Media Matters

The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) Cooperative Society, Federal Polytechnic Nekede, has ushered in a new era of leadership following the successful conduct of its corporate election held on Wednesday, 29th January, 2026.

The exercise, widely adjudged as transparent, peaceful and credible, culminated in the emergence of Dr. Tony Oge Osuji as the new President of the Cooperative Society.

The election recorded an impressive turnout of eligible voters and was conducted in an atmosphere of orderliness and mutual respect. Contestants exhibited commendable maturity and sportsmanship, reinforcing confidence in the democratic ethos of the Cooperative.

A Credible Electoral Process

Proceedings commenced with a brief introduction and presentation of manifestos by the contestants, after which accreditation and voting were seamlessly carried out. In a symbolic demonstration of institutional support for due process, the Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr. Mrs. Basilia Nkemdilim Igbokwe, in her capacity as Chief Executive, cast the first vote, followed by other principal officers and accredited delegates.

Key stakeholders in attendance included the Deputy Rector designated (Academics), Dr. Obinna Iwueke, members of the electoral committee, directors, union executives and cooperative members.

At the close of voting, results of the presidential election were announced as follows:
– Total votes cast: 174
– Dr. Tony Oge Osuji: 110 votes
– Dr. Igbokwe: 62 votes
– Void votes: 2
Dr. Osuji was accordingly declared winner. In his acceptance remarks, he extended warm appreciation to members for the confidence reposed in him and graciously congratulated his opponent for a keenly contested and issue-based election.

Courtesy Visit to the Rector

In furtherance of institutional harmony and cooperation, the newly elected officials, led by Dr. Osuji and accompanied by the Immediate Past President, Mr. Ibe Cyril, paid a courtesy visit to the Rector on Monday, 2nd February, 2026.

Presenting the new leadership to the Rector, Mr. Ibe Cyril expressed gratitude for the administration’s support during the election. He highlighted strides made during his tenure, particularly the successful issuance of allocation papers to members and the securing of private partnerships to advance plot development. He also drew attention to outstanding indebtedness allegedly owed to the Cooperative by the previous administration, appealing for a revived repayment framework.

Vision for a Stronger Cooperative

In his address, Dr. Osuji, an immediate past Head of Department of Social Sciences, a renowned scholar and philanthropist, appreciated the Rector for granting audience to the delegation at short notice and for her visible presence during the election. He reaffirmed his commitment to consolidating the core objectives of the Cooperative, outlining a vision anchored on:
– strengthening members’ welfare schemes;
– deepening investment opportunities;
– ensuring transparency and accountability in cooperative management;
– sustaining strategic partnerships for housing and asset development; and
– positioning the Cooperative as a dependable retirement and financial security platform for members.

Meet your New ASUP Fedpolynek Corporative Society Excos:

1. Dr. Tony Ogechi Osuji- President
2. Dr.(Mrs.) Josephine Nwachukwu- Vice President
3. Mr. Sunday Prince Udoh- Sec Gen
4. Dr. Okechukwu B.I. Udedibie- Asst. Sec Gen
5. Mr. Ijioma Ndubueze- Fin Sec
6. Engr. Gaven Dipnap Vennim- Treasurer
7. Engr. Dele Ogunkunle- Committee 1
8. Mr. Dako Emmanuel Okhatie- Committee 11
9. Mr. Ibe Cyril- EX-Officio

Rector’s Charge and Assurance

Responding, Dr. Mrs. Igbokwe congratulated the new leadership on a successful electoral process and commended the outgoing President for his dedication, particularly in facilitating plot allocations and private sector collaboration.

Rector, Dr. Basilia Igbokwe

On the issue of alleged indebtedness, the Rector stated that her administration was not formally briefed on such liabilities, advising the Cooperative to submit an official claim for verification and appropriate review.

She further charged the new President and his Executive to:
– uphold integrity and remain result-oriented in service;
– ensure timely release and utilization of the first tranche of partnership funds to commence site development within the first quarter;
– encourage plot owners to complete documentation to qualify for subsequent tranches;
– foster strong team spirit and harmonious working relationships;
– demonstrate unwavering commitment to the leadership and sustainable growth of the Cooperative; and
– embrace prudent financial management, innovation and member-focused service delivery.

The Rector reaffirmed her administration’s unwavering commitment to staff welfare, strategic investment and robust retirement planning, noting that a vibrant Cooperative Society remains a critical partner in achieving these goals.

The visit ended on a cordial note, with renewed assurances of collaboration between the Polytechnic Management and the ASUP Cooperative, signaling a promising chapter of progress, accountability and shared prosperity for members.