The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) detached itself from a purported plan to organise a nationwide protest against the recent increase in petrol prices.
This comes in response to a statement circulating in the media, which claimed that NANS would shut down major cities across the country from September 15, 2024, in protest.
According to the statement, the alleged protest aimed to demand a reversal of the petrol price hike and the removal of the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNCPL), Mele Kyari.
However, in a swift rebuttal, NANS Senate President, Afeez Akinteye, labelled the statement as false and called on security agencies to investigate the source of misinformation.
“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,” Akinteye stated.
Furthermore, Akinteye emphasised that those responsible for spreading the false claims were intent on destabilising the country and creating unnecessary tension among citizens.
In addition to this, NANS stressed its commitment to peaceful advocacy, urging law enforcement agencies to take swift action against any individuals or groups using its name to incite unrest.
“We categorically disassociate ourselves from any such plans or intentions. Those responsible for spreading these falsehoods must be identified and held accountable. This 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,” Akinteye added.
Moreover, the student body reaffirmed its dedication to peaceful and lawful advocacy on behalf of Nigerian students, stating that it would continue to work towards positive change through “constructive channels.”
