NANS Makes U-turn Over Planned Protest Against Fuel Price Hike
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has distanced itself from a planned protest scheduled for September 15, 2024 against the recent fuel price hike.
NANS explained that it does not support any actions that could lead to civil unrest or disrupt public order.
The association’s leadership stressed its commitment to peaceful and constructive dialogue as the preferred approach to address concerns over fuel prices.
NANS reaffirmed its stance against any form of agitation that might compromise public peace and safety.
This is contained in a statement signed by NANS senate president, Afeez Akinteye on Wednesday, who described the information as a baseless one that does not represent the position of NANS.
The statement reads, “The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has been made aware of rumors and misinformation circulating across various platforms, suggesting that NANS is planning a massive shutdown of major cities across the country.
“We wish to categorically state that NANS has not announced or endorsed any such protest. These reports are entirely baseless and do not reflect the position or intentions of our organisation.”
Akinteye said the umbrella body representing the interests of Nigerian students, has always been committed to peaceful advocacy and constructive engagement with relevant stakeholders.
It said, “We understand the critical importance of maintaining peace and stability in our nation, especially during these challenging times. Any actions that could lead to civil unrest or the disruption of public order are not, and will never be, supported by NANS.
“We strongly urge the public, the media, and all stakeholders to disregard these false reports. The individuals or groups behind these rumours are faceless entities who seek to exploit the name of NANS for their malicious purposes. They aim to destabilise the country and create unnecessary tension among citizens. We categorically disassociate ourselves from any such plans or intentions.”
The student leader called on security agencies to launch a thorough investigation into the origin of the misinformation.
According to him, those responsible for spreading the ‘falsehood must be identified and held accountable’.
Akinteye explained that the use of the NANS’ name to propagate such unfounded claims is not only a threat to national security but also a grave disservice to the millions of students who genuinely seek positive change through legitimate means.
It said, “Furthermore, we urge security agencies to act decisively in apprehending any individuals or groups attempting to use the name of NANS to incite unrest or disrupt the peace of our nation. We must collectively ensure that the integrity of our democratic processes and the rule of law are upheld at all times.
“NANS remains steadfast in its mission to advocate for the rights and welfare of Nigerian students. We will continue to pursue this mission through peaceful, lawful, and constructive channels.
“Let it be known that NANS stands firmly for peace, progress, and the unity of our nation.
“We appreciate the ongoing support of Nigerian students and the public, and we encourage everyone to remain vigilant and not to fall prey to those who seek to manipulate and mislead for their selfish gains.”
Earlier on Wednesday, SaharaReporters reported that NANS had issued a notification of a planned shutdown of all major cities in Nigeria, effective September 15, 2024.
A statement signed by Okunomo Henry Adewumi, who also identified himself as NANS Senate President, noted that the protest is in response to the recent fuel price hike and the perceived incompetence of the NNPCL Director General, Mele Kyari.
The statement also demanded the immediate reversal of the fuel price hike and the removal of Mr. Male Kyari as the NNPC Director General.
NANS is presently beset by internal divisions, with multiple factions vying for influence and authority. Consequently, it is plausible that one of these factions may have issued a call to action, mobilizing students to participate in the protest, while another faction, perhaps with differing ideologies or agendas, opted to dissociate themselves from the movement and actively worked to bring it to a halt.
