Vox pop On the Stand of Popularity in University Elections

By: Kolade Oluwakiitan

For many students of the University of Ibadan, the student elections and all that comes with it are a familiar tradition. The exception is the fresher population. Obafemi Awolowo Hall Press gathered the opinions of the hall freshers on if popularity should be a criterion for voting in the upcoming UI’SU elections and other elections in the university.

Blessing Olaniyi, 100 level Medicine and Surgery

I believe popularity is one thing but competence is actually very important. On the other hand, you can’t really know who is competent because a competent person might not be able to get the position if he’s not popular enough. I believe you shouldn’t blindly vote for someone just because they are popular or because you know the person from somewhere.

Osinwa Lilian Chinedu, 100 level Nursing

My opinion is that popularity should not be a criterion for voting students because popularity is not what we look for. We look for credibility, people that can deliver and I believe that these are characters we should actually look out for in candidates. I think the best shot at knowing a credible candidate is by waiting for the manifesto night when they give us what they have in store for us.

Ajayi Damisola, 100 level Wildlife and Ecotourism Management

I think popularity is not the main issue here, the main thing is capability. I believe when people see you are capable then you can become popular.

Obisesan Adewumi, 100 level Economics

I feel popularity should not be a criterion because it is literally not a significance of anything, it doesn’t mean anything. If you’re popular doesn’t mean you’re going to get there and do well. It doesn’t mean you are going to use the power when you’re voted in well.
Although it is what most people use because it is popularity most people see. Most people don’t really know the candidates. It should not actually be what is used to vote for candidates because it doesnt mean anything.

Anonymous

I don’t believe so, a “popular” person may have no potential as we can’t judge one’s reputation by the number of the masses who adore them. To judge a person for credibility, he/she must have a good record and a reputation that speaks for itself.

Temiloluwa Adeyinka, 100 level student Physiotherapy

I believe popularity should be part of the criteria for election. A well-known person would be easier to have a track record of, and to effectively criticize. Popularity would entail a history of previous activity in related areas, a general sense of the person’s persona and all that. It would help voters in the decision-making process when they have strong background knowledge of whomever is contending.