By Rauf Mujeeb

The University of Ibadan contingent has finished as second runners-up at the national grand finale of the 2026 Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Campus Debate.

The event, held at the University of Abuja (Now Yakubu Gowon University) on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, featured Mayowa Adekola Peculiar and Israel Bolarinwa, who represented UI after emerging winners at the university level to represent the South-West.

The duo were accompanied to the grand finale by the University of Ibadan Dean of Students and Staff Adviser to the Literary and Debating Society (TLDS), Professor Demola Lewis.

The intellectual showdown, centred on the theme, “Nigeria’s Electoral Process and Democracy,” brought together university representatives from across the geopolitical zones following regional preliminaries held at institutions including the University of Jos, Bayero University Kano, and the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

Related: Two Katangites Emerge Winners of INEC Campus Debate, Win N1 Million

Speaking at the event, the National Commissioner and Chairman of INEC’s Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), Mr Mohammed Haruna, described the initiative as a deliberate effort to promote intellectual development, civic responsibility, and democratic consciousness among young Nigerians.

“The importance of today’s debate extends beyond determining the winning university. It provides an opportunity for young Nigerians to demonstrate their understanding of electoral issues, exchange ideas and appreciate the responsibilities that come with democratic leadership,” he said.

He added that the debate provides an opportunity to recognise the value of respectful disagreement, evidence-based argument, and constructive engagement, which are essential qualities in a democratic society.

Speaking with IndyPress, one of the UI representatives, Mayowa expressed appreciation to INEC for providing the platform and the experience.

“Beyond the recognition and the prize, this achievement means a lot to me and Israel. It is the culmination of six competitions we have participated in together, all within this academic session. Having this as our recent win, and possibly our last outing as a debating duo, makes it even more special. It was a beautiful way to end what has been an incredible journey. What a beautiful last dance!”

He added that the experience had reinforced his belief in the value of “crazy” consistency, proper preparation, and teamwork.

At the end of the grand finale, the University of Jos emerged as the overall winner, while Bayero University, Kano, finished as first runners-up.

The University of Ibadan team secured third place, earning a cash prize of N1.5 million and a plaque in recognition of their performance.

Also present at the event were the INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan (SAN); the Vice-Chancellor of the host institution, the University of Abuja, Professor Hakeem Babatunde Fawehinmi; the President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Professor Chris Piwuna; and other INEC National Commissioners.