The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has officially denied any involvement in a planned protest against the recent fuel price increase, which was purportedly scheduled for September 15, 2024. NANS has clarified that it does not support any actions that could lead to civil unrest or disrupt public order.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, NANS Senate President Afeez Akinteye addressed rumors circulating on social media and other platforms about a planned nationwide protest. Akinteye emphasized that these reports are baseless and do not represent the official position of NANS.
“The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has been made aware of rumors and misinformation circulating across various platforms, suggesting that NANS is planning a massive shutdown of major cities across the country,” the statement reads.
“We wish to categorically state that NANS has not announced or endorsed any such protest. These reports are entirely baseless and do not reflect the position or intentions of our organization.”
Akinteye underscored that NANS remains committed to peaceful advocacy and constructive dialogue with relevant stakeholders. The association has urged the public, media, and all concerned parties to disregard these false reports, attributing them to faceless entities seeking to create unrest and tension.
The recent increase in fuel prices has sparked widespread discontent across Nigeria. The fuel price hike, which was implemented to address the rising costs of petroleum products and align with global oil prices, has led to significant public outcry. Many Nigerians have expressed frustration over the impact on their daily lives, with increased transportation and living costs.
Earlier on Wednesday, a faction of the students’ group had issued a statement through Okunomo Henry Adewumi, who also identified himself as NANS Senate President, that NANS had planned a shutdown of all major cities in Nigeria to protest the fuel price hike and the performance of the NNPC Director General, Mele Kyari.
The statement reportedly demanded the reversal of the fuel price increase and the removal of Kyari from his position.
The conflicting statements highlight ongoing internal divisions within NANS. The student association appears to be dealing with multiple factions, each with differing agendas and approaches. This internal strife could explain the discrepancies in the statements attributed to different leaders within the organization.
In its latest statement, NANS called for a thorough investigation into the sources of the false reports. Akinteye urged security agencies to identify and hold accountable those responsible for spreading the misleading information.
“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,” Akinteye stated. “We must collectively ensure that the integrity of our democratic processes and the rule of law are upheld at all times.”
NANS has traditionally played a significant role in advocating for the rights and welfare of Nigerian students. The association is known for its involvement in various issues affecting students, including educational policies, welfare, and national development.
The confusion surrounding the planned protest has led to mixed reactions from the public and media. Many Nigerians are concerned about the potential for unrest and disruption, particularly given the current economic and social climate.
