The International Open University (IOU) Law Students’ Association on Saturday celebrated a landmark occasion with the official transition from the 3rd Executive Council to the newly elected 4th Executive Council.
The ceremony marked the handover from outgoing president Ms. Fatoumatta Sonko and her team to the new leadership, headed by Mr. Abdou Secka. Distinguished guests graced the event, including IOU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Makie Taal, Head of the Faculty of Law Professor Abdullahi Ishola, Honourable Justice Ebrima Jaiteh of the High Court of The Gambia, and Mr. Emmanuel Daniel Joof, Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission.
In his inaugural address, Secka emphasised that student welfare must remain the guiding principle of the Association. Quoting the maxim salus populi suprema lex “the welfare of the people is the supreme law” he reminded students that leadership is measured not by titles or ceremonies but by its ability to represent and support students in times of need.
“An association is not measured merely by the titles its leaders carry, the ceremonies it holds, or the promises it makes. It is measured by the student who needs help and finds a voice; by the student who feels unheard and finds representation; and by the student who faces a difficult circumstance and finds an association willing to stand beside them,” Secka declared.
Secka’s rise to the presidency follows years of dedicated service within the Association. He previously served as Assistant Secretary-General under Mr. Nuha Bojang, Secretary of the Bar Council, and later Secretary-General under Ms. Sonko’s leadership. Reflecting on this journey, he noted that each role taught him valuable lessons about responsibility, teamwork, and advocacy.
He recalled the Association’s early struggles, when resources were scarce and institutional structures were still developing. He pointed to progress such as the establishment of a law-book shelf in the library and the appointment of a Head of Faculty milestones achieved through the combined efforts of student leaders, faculty, and university management.
Paying tribute to the outgoing council, Secka commended their dedication to student welfare, particularly their efforts in addressing financial challenges that threatened students’ ability to sit examinations. He pledged to lead with humility, teamwork, and a clear vision, focusing on strengthening student support systems, enhancing academic resources, and fostering constructive engagement with university management.
Delivering the vote of thanks, Vice President Fatou Dem described the occasion as not merely a change in leadership but a renewed commitment to service, accountability, and the advancement of the Association. She expressed appreciation to the outgoing council, distinguished guests, alumni, and university management, while reminding the incoming leaders that their responsibility demands integrity and teamwork.
“As law students, the values we study, justice, fairness, and respect for human rights must also reflect in how we lead and serve others,” she emphasised.
Dem concluded by reminding fellow students that the Association belongs to everyone, and that their active participation and cooperation will be essential to collective success.
