A faction of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has dismissed calls for a nationwide protest against the recent fuel pump price hike, urging dialogue instead.
An announcement claiming that the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, is organizing a large-scale shutdown of major cities across Nigeria in opposition to the fuel pump price increase has been refuted by one faction within the organization.
On Wednesday, Okunomo Henry Adewumi, who is the President of Senate in NANS released a notice stating that if fuel pump prices are not reversed by September 15th, 2024 then major cities across the country will be shut down by the group.
On Wednesday, the notification was rejected as stated in a declaration authorized by Comrade Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, Senate President of NANS.
According to the statement, the student association neither announced nor supported the scheduled demonstration.
The statement dismissed allegations regarding the upcoming protest as unfounded and clarified that they did not represent NANS’ stance or agenda.
The student population implored security entities to take firm action against any person or faction endeavoring to exploit the title of NANS for the purpose of provoking disorder and disturbing national tranquility.
The statement emphasized the importance of preserving democratic processes and upholding the rule of law in a unified effort, urging security agencies to conduct a comprehensive inquiry into the source of false information.
The emphasis of the statement was on ensuring that those who spread false information are identified and brought to justice. Additionally, it highlighted how the use of NANS’ name for spreading baseless claims poses a threat to national security and undermines genuine efforts made by millions of students striving towards positive change through lawful means.
Some sections of the announcement state that NANS leadership is cognizant of hearsays and false information making rounds on several platforms, insinuating a vast closure by NANS in significant cities throughout the nation.
Our organization firmly declares that NANS has neither declared nor supported any protest of such kind. These rumors are completely unfounded and do not represent the stance or motives of our entity.
“We, as the leading organization for Nigerian students’ interests, have consistently shown our dedication to advocating peacefully and engaging constructively with applicable parties.”
NANS recognizes the utmost significance of upholding peace and stability in our country, particularly amidst these trying times. Any conduct that might generate civil turmoil or upset public tranquility is opposed by NANS both now and always.
“We urge the public, media and stakeholders to discount these false reports.”
The sources of these rumors are unidentified entities who aim to misuse the name NANS for their own harmful motives. Their goal is evident: to destabilize the nation and cause unwarranted unrest among residents. We completely disclaim any involvement in such schemes or objectives.
