SASA Community High School, Lagos — In a remarkable display of unity transcending borders and time zones, the Class of 1996 of SASA Community High School successfully conducted its first-ever online general election on Sunday, 26th April 2026, marking exactly 30 years since the distinguished alumni walked the halls of their alma mater.

The historic digital poll saw classmates participating from across the globe, transforming what could have been a logistical nightmare into a seamless democratic exercise that stands as a testament to the enduring bonds of the '96 set. From London to Lagos, from New York to Nairobi, members logged in to cast their votes, proving that distance is no barrier to shared purpose.

Presidential Race: Alaribe Secures Landslide Mandate

The contest for the Office of the President emerged as the defining battle of the election, with Ikechukwu Chinanu Alaribe emerging victorious with a commanding 29 votes (67.4%), defeating his sole challenger, Luke Oyameda Osaro, who garnered 14 votes (32.6%). The presidential race drew 43 valid votes out of the 45 cast, with 2 members abstaining from the top ticket.

In a victory speech that struck chords of reconciliation and statesmanship, President-elect Alaribe declared:

Alaribe pledged a presidency defined "not by promises, but by action, collaboration, and renewed connection," vowing to serve with "integrity, transparency, and dedication to the collective interest of our class."

In a particularly magnanimous gesture, the President-elect extended an olive branch to his opponent and all who voted against him, declaring: "Irrespective of our individual differences and political leanings, we are still ONE BIG FAMILY."

He also lavished praise on the Electoral Committee, singling out Mr. Ikechukwu Ezekwelu, Pastor Oluwafemi Okanlawon, Mrs. Folashade Ekungomi, Chief Dipo Odegbami, and Mr. Adedotun Idowu for their "dedication, selflessness, professionalism and attention to details," noting that their conduct "gives me the confidence that there's indeed hope for Nigeria if the right people are given the needed support to get things done right."

A Display of Grace: Osaro's Sportsmanship

The election will also be remembered for the exemplary conduct displayed by the runner-up, Luke Oyameda Osaro, who demonstrated the true spirit of democratic sportsmanship. Shortly after the results were announced, Osaro reached out with a gracious message:

His swift and warm concession stands as a powerful reminder that political contests, however fiercely fought, need not fracture the bonds of brotherhood. Osaro's statesmanship has earned him widespread admiration across the class, setting a standard for graceful defeat that will be remembered for years to come.

Unopposed Candidates Cruise to Victory

The remaining four executive positions were contested unopposed, with all candidates surpassing the constitutional threshold of 26 votes required for valid election:

The overwhelming mandate received by each candidate reflects the class's confidence in their leadership capabilities and their proven track records of service.

Record Turnout Signals Renewed Engagement

The election recorded an impressive voter turnout of 88.2%, with 45 out of 51 accredited members casting their ballots during the four-hour polling window (4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Nigerian time). All 45 votes cast were adjudged valid, underscoring the clarity and simplicity of the electoral process.

Notably, eight voters exercised their constitutional right to partial voting, selecting candidates for only select positions — a reflection of the democratic freedom afforded to all accredited members.

Electoral Committee Delivers Flawless Exercise

The Electoral Committee, comprising Ikechukwu Ezekwelu (Chairman), Oluwafemi Okanlawon (Vice Chairman), Folashade Ekungomi (General Secretary), Dipo Odegbami, and Idowu Adedotun, has received widespread commendation for orchestrating what observers have described as a "free, fair, credible, and peaceful" electoral process.

The Committee's innovative use of accredited voter numbers and photographic verification significantly enhanced the integrity of the poll, eliminating any room for malpractice and ensuring that every vote counted.

From voter accreditation to result collation, the Committee — under the leadership of Chairman Ikechukwu Ezekwelu, Vice Chairman Oluwafemi Okanlawon, Secretary Folashade Ekungomi, and members Dipo Odegbami and Idowu Adedotun — demonstrated unwavering professionalism, meticulous attention to detail, and an unshakeable commitment to democratic principles — qualities that have set a gold standard for future elections within the association.

The New Executive: A Team Ready to Serve

The Electoral Committee hereby declares the following as duly elected officers of the SASA Class of '96:

Looking Ahead: A Presidency of Inclusion

As the Class of '96 turns this new page in its three-decade journey, President-elect Alaribe has called for collective action:

With a mandate built on trust, a runner-up who chose grace over grievance, and an Electoral Committee that delivered excellence, the SASA '96 Set has proven that even after thirty years, the spirit of their class remains unbroken — and their future, brighter than ever.