Tension is steadily rising across Edo State amid fresh allegations that the Department of State Services (DSS) is interfering in an ongoing student union election.
Multiple sources within the academic community now identify the officer at the center of the controversy as “Mt. Alex,” reportedly the student desk officer at the DSS office in Benin City. He is alleged to have sent a message to the university’s Vice Chancellor calling for the disqualification of certain candidates—allegedly on directives linked to the state government.
What has further fueled outrage is that the affected candidates had already been screened and cleared by the electoral committee (ELECOM) before the sudden move for their disqualification. As of now, no official reason has been provided by the DSS for this action, raising serious questions about transparency and due process.
Insiders suggest that the targeted candidates are among those who had previously spoken out against the growing insecurity in Ekpoma, including recent cases of kidnapping and killings. Their stance is reportedly being interpreted in some quarters as political opposition, a development that has intensified fears of suppression.
The situation is increasingly being viewed as a potential flashpoint. Students and observers warn that any perceived manipulation of the electoral process could provoke unrest, undermine institutional credibility, and escalate into a broader crisis within the state.
With no clear explanation from authorities and growing suspicion among the student body, pressure is mounting on university management and security agencies to act with fairness and accountability. If not addressed promptly, this issue risks evolving into a significant threat to peace and stability in Edo State.