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  • NAOSS, NANS urge IGP to take over probe of Ogun student’s murder

    NAOSS, NANS urge IGP to take over probe of Ogun student’s murder

    The National Association of Ogun State Students (NAOSS), the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), and the Inter-Campus and Gender Affairs body have called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, to take over the investigation into the brutal murder of Comrade Quadri Adedamola Ogunbode, a fresh graduate of Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo. 

    During a joint press briefing at the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Secretariat in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Thursday, NAOSS National President Kehinde Thomas and NANS Vice President (Inter-Campus and Gender Affairs) Akinbodunse Sileola Felicia raised concerns over alleged police complicity in the case. They stated that the call for the IGP’s intervention became necessary following reports that two suspects linked to Ogunbode’s murder had escaped to the Republic of Benin. 

    Thomas emphasised the urgency of the investigation, urging the IGP to ensure justice is served and that all suspects are brought to book. He stressed that Ogunbode’s case must not become another unresolved murder in Nigeria. 

    He further criticized the Lagos State Police Command’s handling of the case, describing it as lackluster. He alleged that the police’s approach led to the disappearance of Ogunbode on February 17, 2025, prompting NAOSS and NANS members to block the Ogun State corridor of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway earlier in the week to protest the poor handling of the investigation.

    Thomas said, “It was the police’s hanky-panky game that necessitated our blocking of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway on Monday to call the attention of the IGP to the matter.

    “But we were shocked to learn through the spokesperson of the Lagos State Police Command that two suspects planned to be apprehended have escaped to the neighbouring Republic of Benin.

    Read Also: NANS, NAOSS to Abiodun: Appoint Education Commissioner within 21 days

    “We view this as absurd and unacceptable. Could those suspects have been tipped off, hence, their fleeing? To us, this case is a clear case of murder. And we believe that since the police arrested the main suspect and Church Shepherd, swift investigations should have led to the arrest of the fleeing suspects.

    “However, our findings revealed that a maternal aunt of the main suspect in Quadri’s murder is a senior police officer. As student leaders, we shall resist any attempt by the said aunt to wield her influence to tamper with the investigation, thereby exonerating her nephew.

    “Quadri was a hardworking guy who combined his education at LASU with entrepreneurship. He was a bright star every family member was hoping for. His death has not only thrown melancholy into his family but it has also taken a serious psychological toll on his mum, who cries her heart out every day.

    “We say a big No to any police complicity in the matter! No matter how connected or influential they are, everybody culpable in the case should be made to face the music.”

  • Sexual harassment allegation a distraction to legislative business – NANS 

    Sexual harassment allegation a distraction to legislative business – NANS 

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called for civility in the Nigerian Senate, urging lawmakers to put an end to the ongoing political disruptions that have marred legislative business.

    NANS financial secretary, Jeremiah Friday who spoke on behalf of the president, Comrade Oladoja Olushola, during a rally in solidarity with the 10th National Assembly yesterday, said the unfolding drama within the Senate chamber has reached a critical juncture that demanded collective attention.

    He said: “The recent exchanges in the Nigerian Senate, marked by attacks and counterattacks, have raised serious concerns. As Nigerian students, we find it necessary to weigh in on these developments.

    “The Senate floor, once a sanctuary for reasoned debate and policy formulation, has devolved into an arena of personal vendettas and political brinkmanship.

    “This is concerning, especially at a time when the Federal Government is making concerted efforts to reshape the country’s economic trajectory, combat inflation, reduce the cost of living, and promote socio-cultural respect, dignity, and harmony.

    “President Tinubu’s administration has embarked on ambitious economic reforms that require legislative partnership, not parliamentary paralysis.”

    He said the Senate should not be a battleground for political warfare. 

    He added: “Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s decision to exploit flak from her unfortunate misunderstanding of Senate rules reflects a troubling trend: prioritizing personal ambition over institutional integrity.

    “Such actions blur the lines between legitimate political argumentation and seemingly manipulative tactics designed to incite conflict rather than foster constructive dialogue.”

    He advocated for an environment where healthy debates thrive but emphasised the need to draw the line when personal vendettas destabilise legislative peace in a nation where the price of a bag of rice outweighs the nation’s monthly minimum wage.

    Read Also: NANS meets Ondo Police Commissioner over attack on students

    “By perpetuating these distractions, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan not only puts the reputation of her fellow senators at risk but also endangers the integrity of the Senate itself.

    “We call for a return to civility, where legislators focus on their duties and uphold the tenets of democracy rather than engaging in politically motivated tactics. While we respect her right to fully exercise her rights within the courts of competent jurisdiction, the unmistakable desire of Nigerians for socioeconomic stability should be the focus of the Senate today.

    “As representatives of Nigeria’s student community the very future of this nation we cannot remain silent observers to this institutional degradation. The Senate’s constitutional mandate extends far beyond providing a platform for political grandstanding; it exists to craft legislation that addresses the lived realities of everyday Nigerians,” he added.

    According to him, NANS, as an engaged body that values the integrity of the legislative process, believes it is essential that all members of the Senate adhere strictly to the rules that govern the esteemed institution.

    He said: “It is crucial that we maintain a high standard of accountability to uphold public trust and confidence in our government.

    “Given the seriousness of the alleged misconduct, we urge appropriate disciplinary action against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan. Such action not only enforces the importance of adhering to the Senate’s rules but also serves as a reminder that we are all responsible for maintaining the dignity of our legislative body.”

    The students urged Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan to reconsider her approach and contribute positively to Nigeria’s legislative discourse, rather than perpetuating division.

  • NANS meets Ondo Police Commissioner over attack on students

    NANS meets Ondo Police Commissioner over attack on students

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Joint Campus Council (JCC) Ondo Axis, led by its chairman, Com. Oluwarotimi Joshua, with the Coordinator, NANS Zone D, the Deputy Coordinator, the NANS JCC Ekiti Chairman and other student leaders has met Ondo Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi over attacks on student in Ogbese community.

    The meeting was convened to discuss the ongoing investigation into the unfortunate attack on NANS members in Ogbese on Sunday, February 23, 2025 en route Abuja for NANS National Convention.

    A statement by Joshua after the meeting expressed profound appreciation to the Ondo Police boss for his decisive leadership and swift intervention in handling the matter.

    He also commended the Special Anti-Kidnapping Squad (SAKS) for their professionalism and prompt response, which led to the apprehension of some of the perpetrators involved in the attack.

    The delegation emphasised the need for a thorough investigation to ensure that all those responsible for the assault are brought to justice. 

    Read Also: NANS dismisses allegations against LASUED VC, passes vote of confidence

    They urged the Ondo Police Command to expedite legal proceedings against the suspects, reinforcing the principle that no individual or group is above the law.

    He reaffirmed NANS JCC Ondo unwavering commitment to protecting the rights and safety of Nigerian students. 

    He however assured the Commissioner of Police of NANS readiness to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to ensure a secure and conducive environment for all students in the state.

  • NANS president pledges to resist arbitrary tuition hike

    NANS president pledges to resist arbitrary tuition hike

    The national president, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Olushola Oladoja has vowed to resist all forms arbitrary tuition hike by tertiary institutions across the country.

    Speaking during a press conference on Thursday, Oladoja pledged to pursue improved welfare of students. 

     Oladoja, who was joined by the newly elected executive officers of the association, reaffirmed his commitment to build on the legacies of the immediate past President of NANS, Comrade Lucky Emonefe.

    The postgraduate student of the University of Jos emerged winner after polling 300 votes in a keenly contested convention held at the Old Parade Ground, Abuja.

    He defeated Salauhudeen Suleiman, a student of Yakubu Gowon University (University of Abuja) and Gambo Abubakar from Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University Lapai, Niger State. 

    Suleiman polled 40 votes while Gambo had 15 votes.

    Read Also: Troops kill 217 terrorists, arrest 122 oil thieves in February

    He said his leadership marks the dawn of a new era that would consolidate on past achievements while introducing a pragmatic approach to improving students’ welfare and the education system in Nigeria.

    As part of his agenda, Oladoja has outlined plans for a nationwide campus tour aimed at addressing pressing issues in tertiary institutions and fostering a more inclusive, student-centered leadership.

    He commended the NANS Independent Convention Planning Committee, led by Prince Koyoyo, for organising a free, fair, and credible convention, saying their dedication, transparency, and commitment ensured the success of the process, and history will remember their efforts.

    He said: “I extend my heartfelt appreciation to the immediate-past leadership of NANS, led by Comr. Lucky Emonefe (National President) and Comr. Akinteye Babatunde Afeez (Senate President). Their contributions to the struggle for students’ rights, better welfare, and quality education will always be acknowledged. I pledge to build on the solid foundation they have laid while advancing the cause of Nigerian students.

    “I deeply appreciate the Students’ Union Presidents (Senators) from all tertiary institutions across the federation for their patience, cooperation, and unwavering trust in me. Your confidence in my leadership is an inspiration, and I assure you that under my watch, NANS will be campus-oriented, focusing on grassroots engagement and real-time advocacy for students’ welfare.

    “As a demonstration of our commitment, I hereby announce the immediate commencement of a nationwide campus tour to assess the state of welfare and facilities across our tertiary institutions. This tour will enable us to gather firsthand information on the pressing issues facing Nigerian students and ensure that we engage the relevant authorities for necessary interventions.”

    According to him, NANS remains a formidable force in nation-building, and under his leadership, it will continue to stand in solidarity with the Nigerian masses in the struggle for national development. Nigerian students have a vital role to play in shaping the future of our great nation, and NANS will ensure that students’ voices are heard on matters of national interest.

    “To all my co-contenders in this election, I say this is a victory for all. In the Fortune Era, there are no victors or vanquished. We are all partners in progress, and I extend my hand of fellowship to work with everyone in the collective interest of Nigerian students. Together, we will run an all-inclusive NANS administration that prioritizes the needs and aspirations of students across the country.

    “Conclusively, this is a new dawn for NANS. It is a time to consolidate, to renew, and to redefine our approach toward ensuring a better future for Nigerian students. I urge all students to remain united, focused, and committed to our collective struggle,” he added.

    Immediate past President of NANS, Comrade Lucky Emonefe expressed confidence in the new leadership of NANS, he noted was unanimously voted, adding that the election was supervised by all the security agencies and students from across all the campuses in the federation.

    He noted NANS is the most formidable youth and student movement and that “under the leadership of Ladoja, like what the students have showcased yesterday, we believe that NANS will continue to move forward.”

  • NANS elects new National President

    NANS elects new National President

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has elected Comrade Olushola Oladoja as its National President. 

    Oladoja, who is a Postgraduate student of the University of Jos, emerged winner after polling 300 votes in a keenly contested convention held at the Old Parade Ground, Abuja.

    He defeated Salauhudeen Suleiman, a student of Yakubu Gowon University (University of Abuja) and Gambo Abubakar from Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University Lapai, Niger State. 

    Suleiman polled 40 votes while Gambo had 15 votes. 

    The convention attracted over 358 Senators (Students’ Union Government Presidents) from tertiary institutions across Nigeria.

    Read Also: Lagos, private sector begin exchange programme for workers

    The election was conducted under the leadership of Comr. Suleiman Sariki, who served as the Convention Chairman.

    Some of the students who participated in the exercise described it as “free, fair, and credible election.”

    The newly elected president is expected to lead NANS in advocating for students’ rights, quality education and better welfare conditions for students.

  • NANS demands justice over attack on students in Ogbese community

    NANS demands justice over attack on students in Ogbese community

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Joint Campus Council (JCC) Ondo Axis has demanded justice over attack on Nigerian students in Ogbese Community, Ondo State while en route to the 2025 NANS National Convention in Abuja. 

    NANS said the unfortunate incident, which resulted in injuries, destruction of property, theft of mobile phones, and extortion was not only barbaric but also a blatant assault on the rights and dignity of Nigerian students.

    A statement by NANS JCC Ondo Axis Chairman, Com. Oluwarotimi Joshua condemned the attack and called on Ondo State Government and security agencies to take immediate action.

    He said: “This is an urgent call to the Ondo State Government, the Nigeria Police Force, and all relevant security agencies to swiftly intervene and ensure that the perpetrators of this heinous attack are identified, arrested, and prosecuted. Nigerian students will not tolerate such barbarism any longer.

    “We demand justice, and as a matter of urgency, we issue a seven-day ultimatum from the date of this incident for concrete action to be taken against those responsible for this attack. Failure to act will leave us with no choice but to take lawful but decisive steps to protect the safety and dignity of Nigerian students.

    “The NANS JCC Ondo remains resolute in its commitment to defending the rights of students and ensuring that no student in Ondo State or beyond is subjected to violence or oppression. The era of unchecked brutality against Nigerian students must end now”.

    While narrating the ordeal of the students, the Ondo NANS Chairman said, “By exactly 10:00 AM on Sunday, February 23, 2025, a convoy of student leaders and union representatives from various institutions across South West Nigeria departed from Akure, Ondo State, heading to Abuja for the NANS National Convention. 

    “The convoy, consisting of four buses and five cars, included the newly donated CNG bus to NANS South West Zone D by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, as well as the Students’ Union buses of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo; Federal Polytechnic, Ile-Oluji; and Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba.

    “Upon reaching Ogbese, a Toyota Camry attempted to force its way through the convoy at high speed. The lead driver cautiously signaled for the vehicle to slow down to ensure safe passage.

    “However, in a shocking act of aggression, the Camry driver threw a sachet of water at one of the convoy’s drivers, who instinctively responded by tossing it back into the Camry. This led to an escalation, as the Camry aggressively maneuvered to the front of the CNG bus, blocked the road, and forced the entire convoy to halt.

    “A group of men, some appearing to be in their late twenties and others in their thirties, emerged from the Camry wielding wooden sticks and violently attacked the newly donated CNG bus, breaking its windows and damaging vital parts. 

    “They then proceeded to attack the Adekunle Ajasin University Students’ Union bus, forcefully pulling out the driver and physically assaulting him. When Comrade Fadiran Abiola (Fadirex) intervened in an attempt to de-escalate the situation, he was also viciously attacked.

    “The situation quickly spiraled into chaos as more individuals from the community emerged, armed with dangerous weapons, including cutlasses, knives, and additional sticks. These assailants openly expressed hostility towards Nigerian students, launching violent attacks on several members of the convoy. One student suffered a severe machete wound, resulting in excessive bleeding.

    Read Also: NANS hails southwest governors for resolve to jointly tackle insecurity, hunger

    “This is not an isolated incident. Reports indicate that Ogbese youths have a history of targeting Nigerian students, with previous attacks recorded against Rufus Giwa Polytechnic and Adekunle Ajasin University union buses in recent years.

    “During the attack, the Chairman of NANS JCC Ondo, Comrade Oluwarotimi Tobiloba Joshua (Josh), made efforts to de-escalate the situation through dialogue. However, in a disgraceful act of violence, one of the attackers struck him on the back with a stick. 

    “The Students’ Union President of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, Comrade Shane Aigbodion, intervened and sustained a wound to his hand while trying to shield the Chairman from further harm. As the situation became increasingly life-threatening, the Chairman instructed students to board their buses and vacate the scene immediately.

    “Upon reaching the Ogbese border, the incident was promptly reported to uniformed police officers. Shockingly, instead of taking immediate action, they advised that the Commissioner of Police be contacted. Repeated calls to the Commissioner of Police, the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of the Ogbese area, and the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) went unanswered. 

    “The NANS JCC Ondo Chairman eventually reached out to the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), who assured that the matter would be addressed. However, despite waiting for over three hours, no security intervention was provided.

    “In response, the students organised a peaceful protest demanding justice, which resulted in significant traffic congestion. Notably, the police failed to confront the attackers, possibly out of fear or complicity. It was only the intervention of military personnel that restored order. Alarmingly, even the military confirmed that Ogbese youths have a history of lawlessness and violence.”

  • Security: NANS hails Interior Minister over proposed establishment of Paramilitary Academy

    Security: NANS hails Interior Minister over proposed establishment of Paramilitary Academy

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has applauded Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, for his forward-thinking leadership and strategic initiative to propose the establishment of a paramilitary academy.

    The student body hailed the proposal as a bold step that highlights the Minister’s deep understanding of national security challenges and the pressing need to strengthen Nigeria’s security infrastructure through organized training and capacity-building.

    Com. Akinteye Babatunde, NANS Senate President, emphasised in a statement that the proposed paramilitary academy represents a crucial move toward cultivating a disciplined, well-trained workforce capable of addressing modern security concerns.

    The statement further stressed the importance of investing in specialized institutions that can adequately prepare paramilitary officers, ensuring they are well-equipped to contribute effectively to national security and crisis management.

    “The Honourable Minister has consistently demonstrated a results-oriented approach to governance, tackling critical issues with diligence and expertise. His commitment to institutional reforms and security sector development is highly commendable.

    Read Also: Osun police confirm six dead in APC-PDP clash over LGA control 

    “Indeed, his leadership is one that inspires confidence, and his policies reflect a deep understanding of his responsibilities. Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo has, without doubt, proven that he knows his onions and is delivering exceptional results in his capacity as Minister of Interior.”

    The statement urge all relevant stakeholders, including government agencies, security institutions, and policymakers, to lend their full support to the commendable initiative. 

    “The establishment of a paramilitary academy will not only enhance security operations but also create opportunities for skill acquisition, youth engagement, and national development.

    “We reaffirm our support for policies that promote national security, capacity building, and the overall development of Nigeria. As the voice of Nigerian students, we will continue to advocate for policies that safeguard our collective future and ensure a safer society for all.”

  • NANS hails southwest governors for resolve to jointly tackle insecurity, hunger

    NANS hails southwest governors for resolve to jointly tackle insecurity, hunger

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has commended governors in the southwest for their decision to establish a joint security network and food hubs to tackle insecurity and hunger in the region.

    In a statement issued on Monday in Abeokuta, Ogun State, NANS Ogun Joint Campus Committee chairman, Gabriel Francis, described the resolution by the Southwest Governors’ Forum as a laudable step that would accelerate regional growth and development.

    The governors, during a meeting in Lagos last week, announced plans to create a coordinated security network and food hubs to strengthen the region’s socioeconomic stability. 

    They also agreed to collaborate on the Southwest Development Commission to drive sustainable growth.

    Francis emphasized that the governors’ decision to work together on critical issues like insecurity and food security would significantly enhance economic prosperity in the southwest.

    He pointed out that the resolutions by the governors especially concerning insecurity, could not have come at a better time than when insurgents and terrorists are suspected of flooding to the southwest.

    Read Also: NANS canvasses Tinubu’s backing for Ribadu’s security reform

    The NANS leader expressed optimism that the southwest would regain its enviable position in the country, if the governors work in unity and collaborate on issues underpinning the growth of the region.

    According to him, the region is blessed with vast fertile and arable land suitable for agriculture, mineral and other natural resources, urging the governors to harness the comparative advantages of the various states for the overall benefit of the southwest.

    He noted further that apart from the issues of insecurity and hunger, the Southwest Governors Forum should expand their cooperation to transportation, joint trade fair, youth development programmes, industrial, ICT and other socioeconomic development activities.

    While calling on the governors to ensure they actualize the laudable resolutions, Gabriel urged them to begin work in earnest by jointly setting various committees to develop a work template towards making their resolutions work accordingly.

  • Lagos NANS, LASWA partner to drive students awareness, safety on water

    Lagos NANS, LASWA partner to drive students awareness, safety on water

    The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and Joint Campus Council (JCC) Lagos has partnered with Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) to foster students engagement in advancement of water transportation.

    The partnership, led by LASWA General Manager, Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, provided firsthand insights into the operations, regulatory responsibilities and sustainability efforts of LASWA in ensuring safe and efficient water transportation in Lagos State.

    Lagos NANS Chairman, Com. AbdulQuadri Abdul-Raheem, led delegation of students, including all SUG Presidents, SUG Speakers, and the Presidents of the Transportation departments from tertiary institutions across Lagos on the tour to assess innovations introduced by LASWA towards ensuring that waterway transportation remains safe and accessible for all.

    Read Also: NANS lauds FUOYE VC on infrastructural development

    The LASWA boss said the agency serves as the primary regulator of water transportation in Lagos, overseeing all aspects, including boat operations, passenger safety, and jetty maintenance.

    He noted LASWA ensures that all boat operators are licensed, passengers adhere to safety protocols (such as using life jackets), and jetties remain in optimal condition for public use.

    According to him, recognising importance of youths in national development, LASWA is actively engaging students to spread awareness about waterway safety, environmental sustainability, and opportunities within the sector.

    Abdul-Raheem said the initiative reinforced commitment of NANS JCC Lagos to student advocacy, safety, and leadership.

    He said by partnering with LASWA, students have a platform to contribute to and benefit from the evolving landscape of water transportation in Lagos.

  • NANS, FRSC partners to address plate number issues

    NANS, FRSC partners to address plate number issues

    …strengthens institutional collaboration

    The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) have resolved their differences regarding the impounding of vehicle plate numbers belonging to NANS.

    At a meeting held on Friday, February 7, 2025, FRSC Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed, along with senior FRSC officials, agreed to halt any form of harassment related to student vehicle registrations.

    During the discussion, FRSC clarified the rationale behind its ongoing operations, while NANS insisted that official organizational vehicles should not be unfairly targeted. 

    Both parties emphasized the need for a more transparent and cooperative approach to law enforcement.

    Corps Marshal Mohammed assured NANS of improved collaboration, reaffirming the FRSC’s commitment to fair and professional enforcement of road safety regulations without undue interference with students.

    In their remarks, NANS President, Com. Lucky Emonefe and NANS Senate President, Com. Babatunde Akinteye pledged to support FRSC in its activities, particularly in promotion of road safety awareness among students and young drivers across Nigeria.  

    Read Also: Reports on scrapping JSS, SSS not true – FG

    The duo commended FRSC for its relentless efforts in ensuring road safety and reducing accidents on our highways. 

    “We recognize the critical role the Corps plays in enforcing traffic regulations and protecting lives, and we urge all Nigerian students to support initiatives that promote safer roads for all.  

    “This development marks the beginning of a stronger partnership between NANS and FRSC, with a shared commitment to fostering mutual understanding and enhancing student awareness of road safety regulations. 

    “As representatives of the student constituency, we are committed to ensuring that no student is subjected to undue intimidation or harassment under the guise of enforcement.  

    “We urge all Nigerian students to remain law-abiding and engage constructively with authorities when necessary. 

    “NANS will continue to serve as a bridge between students and relevant institutions, advocating for policies that protect student rights while promoting responsible civic conduct.”