Yisau Babatunde reports,
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| Abdulmalik Kawu in Emir Regalia |
The President of the Ilorin Emirate Students' Union (IESU) at Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto (UDUS), Sen. Abdulmalik Abdulrasak Olanrewaju, popularly known as Kawu, has formally resigned from office following his emergence as the Senate President of the Union's National Headquarters.
According to the information gathered by Digest Press, Sen Abdulrasak turned in his resignation letter to the Ilorin Emirate Students' Union (UDUS) Chapter, in the early hours of today, 4th of June, 2026 bringing an end to his administration which started on 5th September, 2025.
Speaking exclusively on the development, Kawu said his decision was guided by constitutional provisions and the need to ensure effective leadership at both the chapter and national levels.
"My resignation as President of IESU UDUS Chapter follows my emergence as Senate President of IESU National Headquarters. In line with the provisions of the National Constitution and in the interest of fairness, accountability and institutional propriety, I considered it necessary to relinquish my position at the chapter level," he told Digest Press, UDUS
According to him, the resignation shouldn't be mistaken as a withdrawal from the affairs of the chapter, stressing that he remains committed to the progress and development of IESU UDUS.
“The chapter remains so dear to me, and I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have served its members. I will continue to support the Chapter in every appropriate capacity while discharging my duties as Senate President of the National Headquarters," he added.
Kawu disclosed that he had earlier communicated his resignation to the National Headquarters and the Northern Axis before formally notifying Congress, explaining that the delay was to allow for a smooth transition process within the chapter.
The outgoing president, while reflecting on his position as the IESU UDUS, said that it was a transformative administration marked by welfare interventions, institutional reforms, student development programmes and peaceful coexistence among members.
Among the achievements he highlighted were the reduction of transportation costs for students, the facilitation of stakeholder support and N5,000 bus subsidies, as well as the introduction of the chapter's first Flight Welfare Initiative aimed at easing the financial burden on members.
He also pointed to infrastructural improvements, including the installation of a banner for the Emirate Shop and renovation of its interior, alongside efforts to improve administrative coordination and efficiency within the union.
On student development, Kawu noted that his administration organised tutorials for prospective students, online orientation programmes for freshers, Ramadan giveaways, orientation exercises and turbaning ceremonies that featured notable organisations such as JCI, NACJ, Plogging Nigeria and UniSDG.
Beyond physical projects and programmes, the outgoing president said one of the legacies he cherishes most is the peaceful atmosphere that characterised the chapter throughout his tenure.
"Congress sessions and union activities were conducted without incidents of violence, fights or major disruptions. This demonstrated the maturity, discipline and commitment of our members to constructive engagement and peaceful dialogue," he said.
He further highlighted that, the ongoing constitutional review efforts initiated during his administration, describing them as steps towards strengthening the union's institutional framework for future generations.
Looking ahead, Kawu urged the incoming leadership to sustain the welfare-driven philosophy of his administration and pursue key initiatives that were yet to be fully realised.
Top among them is the proposed Ilorin Emirate Students Union Female Forum (IFF), a platform designed to promote leadership development, mentorship, welfare advocacy and greater participation of female students in union activities.
He also expressed hope that the proposed Ilorin-Offa Students Union Coalition (IOSUC), which seeks to bring together students from both unions through monthly webinars and collaborative engagements, would be implemented.
"The idea is to create opportunities for learning, networking and stronger unity among our students while reinforcing the fact that our unions remain one family," he explained.
On the question of succession, Kawu declined to speculate on who would take over the leadership of the chapter, insisting that the constitution already provides mechanisms for continuity.
"The relevant organs of the union will determine the most appropriate course of action in line with constitutional provisions. My focus is not on who succeeds me but on ensuring a smooth and orderly transition," he stated.
Despite stepping down, Kawu believes his exit will strengthen rather than weaken the chapter.
"Leadership in IESU is not about an individual but about the strength of its institutions and the commitment of its members. I see my exit as a transition into a new phase for the union where the foundations already laid can be built upon and improved by incoming leadership."