Ogun Students: Count Us Out of Nationwide Protest

Ogun students have declared their non-participation in the upcoming nationwide protest. Learn more about their reasons for opting out.

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and the National Association of Ogun State Students (NAOSS) have announced their decision not to participate in the upcoming nationwide demonstration against hunger and inadequate governance.

From August 1 to 10, a nationwide protest with the theme #EndBadGovernance has been planned across all of Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Expressing concern, the students of Abeokuta rallied against the planned protest on Wednesday and stated that there was a probability for hoodlums to take over it with an intention to cause unrest and disrupt peace in Nigeria.

Thomas Kehinde, the National President of NAOSS, urged students to avoid participating in nationwide protests while speaking with reporters at the rally.

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“We, the leaders of the collective student structures in Ogun State have organized this rally to emphasize that our state’s students will not participate in the nationwide protests,” he said.

You are likely aware that the organizers of nationwide protests are preparing for a demonstration against the current economic difficulties. While we hold no opposition towards any individuals or groups protesting, we wish to make it explicitly clear that we have chosen not to participate in these events.

We urge students in Ogun State not to partake in any demonstration and disregard all invitations to engage with those who falsely present their cause as a nationwide protest.

While the organizers of the protests assure that they will be conducted peacefully, it’s easier said than done. There is a possibility for such demonstrations to be taken over by troublemakers who may engage in looting, robbery and vandalism of public or private property as well as attacks against specific individuals; therefore we urge caution.

Additionally, hidden variables may influence the situation and potentially elevate it from a peaceful demonstration to chaos with detrimental consequences for all involved.

Due to the bitter memories of the EndSARS protests still resonating among Nigerians, it is crucial that we prevent a repeat of excessive destruction and alleged killings. Thus, as citizens of Nigeria, we strongly urge students in Ogun State to refrain from participating in any nationwide demonstrations.

Student associations’ leaderships in Ogun State, who are committed to serving their members’ interests through organized activities, will always avoid promoting violent and destructive behavior among them.

We encourage the students in our state to stay composed and trust that their leaders will advocate for their welfare and prosperity through peaceful means.