The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has reaffirmed its plan to proceed with a nationwide protest against the recent hike in petrol prices. Henry Okuomo, the Senate President of NANS, confirmed the protest during an interview on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Friday.
“We are not merely threatening a strike; we are fully committed to taking action due to the current dire situation in the country,” Okuomo said.
“Nigerians are facing severe hardship, and the government’s decision to raise fuel prices once again has worsened the situation, especially for students. As student leaders, we have no choice but to stand up for the people.”
Okuomo highlighted the significant role students play in the country, noting that NANS represents over 40 million Nigerian students.
He stressed the association’s responsibility to make their voices heard and alleviate the suffering inflicted on the populace by government policies.
“We have set the 15th of this month as the date for our protest. There is no turning back. We are hitting the streets hard,” Okuomo declared.
“Our demands go beyond the reduction of fuel prices; we are calling for a reversal of various policies that have contributed to the hardship in the country.”
NANS had previously called for the removal of the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, along with a reversal of the petrol price hike.
Meanwhile, Afeez Akinteye, President of NANS, clarified earlier reports, disassociating the group from any protest rumors. In a statement, Akinteye denied the claims and urged security agencies to investigate the source of the misinformation.
“We strongly urge the public, media, and stakeholders to disregard these false reports. Those behind these rumors are faceless individuals trying to exploit the NANS name for malicious purposes,” Akinteye said. He further called on security agencies to apprehend those responsible for spreading falsehoods, which he described as a threat to national security.
Akinteye assured the public that NANS remains dedicated to advocating for Nigerian students through peaceful and constructive means, and reiterated the association’s commitment to peace, progress, and national unity.
