The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has disclaimed an individual allegedly parading himself as the president of the association, describing his claims as illegitimate, misleading, and politically sponsored.
In a statement signed by Comrade Adejuwon Olatunji Emmanuel, Assistant Secretary General, NANS National, it was a wave of sponsored misinformation aimed at sowing division and undermining the unity of the student movement across the country.
The group warned that the association will not allow its platform to be hijacked by what it termed “a lone ranger” pursuing personal and political interests.
The statement accused the self-styled president of being sponsored by political actors threatened by the strength of a unified NANS, and of engaging in attacks against public figures for personal gain.
Particularly, the statement criticised repeated allegations made against Mr. Seyi Tinubu, the Minister of Youth, and other prominent officials.
“His consistent attacks on individuals in government particularly Mr. Seyi Tinubu, the Honourable Minister of Youth, and other respected public officials are nothing but a calculated attempt to exploit the current political landscape for personal popularity and financial reward.
“One must ask: how is it possible for someone to claim to be the NANS President and yet walk alone without any EXCOs, without any zonal, state (JCC), or institutional SUG structure supporting him?”the statement read.
NANS questioned the legitimacy of the individual’s emergence, stating that there is no record of his participation in the student electoral process.
It pointed out the absence of proof of form purchase, screening, convention attendance, or election.
The association also raised concerns over the lack of any executive council members or other organizational backing associated with the individual.
The statement also called out Sahara Reporters, accusing the media outlet of being the sole platform amplifying the controversial figure’s claims.
“Why is this issue only being amplified by Sahara Reporters, a platform that seems to have become a megaphone for just one individual?” the statement queried.
NANS further challenged members of the media and public to verify the claims by reaching out to legitimate student structures including JCC Chairmen, Zonal Coordinators, and sister organisations such as NAUS, NANCE, and NAPS.
The body maintained that none of these recognized student groups support the said individual.
NANS called on students nationwide to ignore distractions and remain committed to the organisation’s core mission of advocating for Nigerian students.
“Our voice is strong, our structure is intact, and our resolve is unshakable. We are not for sale,” the statement added.
