SUG ELECTION: YOU HAVE TO LEARN HOW TO HANDLE POWER — PROF. OMENUGHA

The Vice-Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Prof. Kate Azuka Omenugha, FNIPR, has charged student leaders and aspirants to exercise caution and responsibility in positions of authority, emphasizing that leadership should be driven by service rather than the abuse of power. She made this remark while addressing students and staff at the SUG Election Situation Room on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, during the university’s historic Students’ Union Government election.

Speaking to the aspirants and participants in the electoral process, Prof. Omenugha noted that elections provide young leaders with valuable lessons not only in democracy but also in leadership and character formation. She urged those seeking leadership positions to understand the weight of responsibility that comes with public office and to remain committed to serving the interests of those who entrusted them with power.

The Vice-Chancellor cautioned against the misuse of authority, stating, “You have to learn how to handle power, for as they say, power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” According to her, one of the greatest tests of leadership is the ability to wield influence responsibly without allowing it to overshadow humility, accountability, and respect for others.

Prof. Omenugha further revealed that her leadership philosophy is rooted in the belief that all power ultimately belongs to God. She explained that this conviction has guided her administration and influenced her approach to governance. The Vice-Chancellor noted that she does not use power to intimidate or oppress people, adding that those who work closely with her can attest to her commitment to fairness, inclusion, and mutual respect.

She therefore advised the aspiring and newly elected student leaders to remain mindful of the responsibilities attached to their offices and not allow power to get into their heads. According to her, true leadership is measured not by the authority one possesses but by the positive impact one makes on the lives of others. Her remarks served as a timely lesson on ethical leadership and responsible governance, reinforcing the values-driven culture being promoted under her administration at the Now University and of the Future.

©️COOUNewS, 2026