In his inaugural address titled “Upholding the Common Trust in an Uncommon Way,” newly elected President of the Federation of Ekiti State Students Union (FESSU), EKSU Chapter, Comrade Orewa Ayodeji Adesanya, popularly known as Orewa Ayopeters, set a revolutionary tone for his administration. Delivered on Friday, February 10, 2017, the speech outlined an agenda anchored in transformational leadership, student-centered governance, and cultural reawakening.
Drawing parallels between biblical prophecy and political emergence, Adesanya described his ascent to power not as a personal ambition, but a collective call from the students. “Before it became my ambition,” he said, “it was the students’ ambition for me to lead.” He evoked spiritual authority, quoting Prophet Isaiah and referencing divine selection from the book of Samuel, declaring his leadership a sacred assignment, not a political privilege.
Central to his speech was a promise to champion what he termed an “Uncommon Welfarism Revolution.” Citing the predominance of Ekiti indigenes within EKSU’s student population, Adesanya pledged that the welfare of one would be the concern of all. “From this day forward,” he declared, “the interest of one Ekiti indigene is the interest of all. Your pain is our pain. Your welfarism is our priority.”
In a deeply reflective moment, Adesanya expressed dismay at the cultural erosion among Ekiti youth, especially the declining use of indigenous language. “It’s lugubrious to see many Ekiti students ashamed of speaking their dialect,” he lamented. Warning that linguistic detachment leads to distorted identity, he urged students to embrace their heritage proudly and authentically.
Asserting that “knowledge brings honor,” Adesanya rolled out his plans for academic initiatives that would raise the intellectual bar within the university. These include a debate championship, an educational summit, and strategic learning engagements, all aimed at reinforcing EKSU’s identity as a hub for brilliance and leadership.
Promising a more vibrant social and cultural calendar, he announced the revival of student social life and the launch of initiatives such as the Kabiesi’s Cup, along with visits to Ekiti’s heritage sites like the Ikogosi Warm Springs and Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls. He also extended a hand of unity to sister associations such as the National Association of Ondo State Students, stressing peace and collaboration over rivalry.
In a revealing section of the speech, Adesanya identified the union’s lack of a codified constitution as a major flaw. He announced the appointment of Israel Olawunmi as Special Adviser on Legal Matters and Fatoyinbo Seun (aka Brainbox) as Chief Press Secretary. These moves, he said, signal his administration’s intent to bring structure, accountability, and transparency into FESSU’s governance.
Adesanya emphasized unity and student participation. “Our tomorrow is a product of our actions and inaction today,” he warned, urging students to not only support his administration but to actively participate in shaping a better future for the union and themselves.
He paid tribute to his predecessor, Comrade Adedara Temitope Topmost, and the entire outgoing executive council. He also acknowledged key supporters and stakeholders who contributed to the successful transition and election, including Mr. Abegunde Martins, Comrade Ademiluyi Ayodele (Ayomighty), and Comrade Omotayo Ola (Leo).
Adesanyas’ acceptance speech was far from ceremonial. It was a deeply ideological blueprint for a tenure anchored in service, courage, and cultural pride. His language was poetic yet political, spiritual yet strategic, a blend that signaled the arrival of a new kind of leadership in FESSU EKSU, one that speaks the language of both the mind and the heart.
0 Comments