Friday, September 6, 2024 The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) says it will be going ahead with its plans to embark on a nationwide protest over the recent increase in petrol price.
The Senate President of the NANS, Henry Okuomo stated this while
speaking on Channels Television on Friday, September 6.
“We are not threatening a strike. That is what we are going to do
because of the current situation of the country. Nigerians are currently facing
a lot. We are facing hardship, and now, the government has increased fuel
prices again. This has affected us as students. And as student leaders, we
don’t have a choice now but to fight for the people.
We are occupying one of the largest stakes in the country, having over
40 million Nigerian students in the country. With that, we think we should make
our voice loud at this time to save the Nigerian people from this undue stress
and suffering being put upon them by the government. We have determined that on
the 15th of this month, no going back. We are hitting the street hard.” he said
The clarification comes after the president of the association, Afeez
Akinteye, had earlier denied that the group was organising a protest against
the increase in petrol price. A circular from NANS announcing plans to embark
on a strike made the rounds on social media on Wednesday. When contacted to
confirm the authenticity, Akinteye had called on security agencies to
investigate the source of the misinformation, stating that NANS was not
embarking on any strike.
“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.
We hereby call on the security agencies to launch a thorough
investigation into the origin of this misinformation. Those responsible for
spreading these falsehoods must be identified and held accountable. The use of
the NANS name to propagate such dangerous and 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.
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.”
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