,Inculcating Leadership & Civic Instinct: Mrs. Jogbodo Makes History as INEC Conducts Ijapo High School Prefects’ Election
In a remarkable stride toward nurturing leadership and democratic consciousness among young minds, Dr. (Mrs.) Fadekemi Jogbodo, the dynamic President of ANCOPSS (All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools), Ondo State chapter, and the visionary Principal of Ijapo High School, Akure, has once again etched her name into the annals of educational innovation.
On Thursday, 25th September 2025, history was made as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) formally conducted the 2025/2026 prefectural elections at Ijapo High School—a precedent-setting event that seamlessly married classroom learning with real-world civic engagement.
In her address, Dr. (Mrs.) Jogbodo explained that the school had initially shortlisted 45 students based on merit and proven character. From this pool, candidates were nominated to vie for various leadership positions. The process was designed not merely to fill roles but to inculcate a deep sense of responsibility, accountability, and patriotism in the students.
“We want our students to understand the true meaning of leadership—not by imposition, but by choice. We are raising future citizens who must be guided by democratic principles and civic values,” she stated.
By inviting INEC to conduct the elections, Dr. Jogbodo ensured that the process reflected the standards of national electoral integrity, making it both free and fair. This bold initiative, she added, aims to educate the students on their civic duties and the power of the ballot from an early age.
The day prior to the election, the school hosted a manifesto presentation session where candidates articulated their visions and pledges before the student body. It was an inspiring moment as students listened attentively and evaluated their peers’ leadership potential, preparing to exercise their civic rights the next day.
The voting exercise involved class delegates—ten students (five boys and five girls) each from JSS 2 and 3—while the entire SSS 2 and SSS 3 classes were given the right to vote, giving the process both structure and inclusivity.
The election saw an impressive turnout and enthusiastic participation. The atmosphere, filled with anticipation and excitement, bore testimony to the maturity of the students. Once the results were announced, a profound moment unfolded: all contestants, regardless of the outcome, embraced one another in a rare show of sportsmanship and unity.
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“This is the leadership spirit we are trying to build—resilience, unity, and acceptance. Our students are sending a message to leaders at all levels,” Dr. Jogbodo remarked proudly.
Official Election Results
The Returning Officer, Revd. Canon Sola Ebenezer Adekanye, declared the following results: Senior Prefect Boy:
Ogunsuyi Jesugbemiga – 500 votes (Winner) to defeat two other candidates Ademola Michael – 107 votes and Awe Ayanfe – 09 votes
Senior Prefect Girl: Olajumoke Amos – had 557 votes (Winner) while imoh Halimat scored 103 votes, Oluwatimilehin Ojo – 58 votes and Oluwadamilare Loveth – 08 votes
In their victory speeches, both Olajumoke Amos and Jesugbemiga Ogunsuyi expressed their gratitude and admiration for the process.
“We are truly fascinated by the fairness and transparency of the election. It has inspired us to take responsibility and serve with integrity,” Olajumoke said.
Mr. Yinka Ogunseye, Head of Voter Education and Inclusivity at INEC, who was present at the event, lauded the initiative. Speaking to journalists, he emphasized the importance of early exposure to democratic processes.
“Some of these students will soon reach voting age. Going through this experience now will make the transition seamless and natural. This is a powerful tool for nation-building,” he noted.
The event also witnessed an act of generosity, as the Tomiwa Aregbesola Foundation donated exercise books and school bags to the students—a gesture that added color to the day and underscored the spirit of community and support for education.
Dr. (Mrs.) Fadekemi Jogbodo’s tenure continues to be marked by innovation, excellence, and transformational leadership. As both the principal of Ijapo High School and the state ANCOPSS President, she has consistently demonstrated a commitment to shaping responsible, enlightened, and empowered young citizens.
With initiatives like these, Ijapo High School is not just preparing students for examinations but for a lifetime of civic engagement and nation-building.
Indeed, the future of leadership in Nigeria gleams brighter—thanks to the seeds being sown today in schools like Ijapo.