The International Open University (IOU) Law Students’ Association has inaugurated its fourth Executive Council, with newly elected president Abdou Secka pledging to prioritise student welfare, strengthen academic support and promote effective representation.
The transition ceremony, held on Saturday, marked the formal handover from the third Executive Council, led by outgoing president Fatoumatta Sonko, to the new leadership.
The event was attended by IOU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Makie Taal, Head of the Faculty of Law Professor Abdullahi Ishola, High Court Justice Ebrima Jaiteh and National Human Rights Commission Chairperson Emmanuel Daniel Joof.
In his inaugural address, Secka said student welfare must remain the central focus of the Association, emphasising that leadership should be measured by its ability to address students’ concerns rather than titles or ceremonial occasions.
Quoting the Latin maxim salus populi suprema lex, meaning “the welfare of the people is the supreme law,” he said the Association must provide a voice for students who feel unheard and support those facing difficulties.
Secka’s election follows years of service within the Association, having previously served as assistant secretary-general under Nuha Bojang, secretary of the Bar Council, and secretary-general under the outgoing president.
Reflecting on the Association’s development, he highlighted achievements including the establishment of a law-book shelf in the university library and the appointment of a head of faculty. He also commended the outgoing council for its efforts to address financial challenges that threatened some students’ ability to sit examinations.
The new president pledged to build on these achievements through teamwork, accountability and constructive engagement with university management, while strengthening student support systems and improving access to academic resources.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Vice-President Fatou Dem described the transition as a renewed commitment to service and accountability.
She urged the new council to uphold justice, fairness and respect for human rights, stressing that students’ participation and cooperation would be essential to the Association’s success.
