The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has distanced itself from an individual claiming to be the association’s President, warning that such actions are misleading and capable of disrupting the group’s focus on defending student interests.
In a statement signed by NANS Assistant Secretary General Olatunji Adejuwon, the association described the actions of the said individual as misinformation aimed at dividing the body and weakening its unity.
According to the statement, “the individual is not recognised as a legitimate leader and is instead acting for personal gain and financial reward.”
NANS also condemned the individual’s repeated attacks on government officials, especially the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, describing the criticism as politically motivated.
The statement added, “It is a calculated attempt to exploit the current political landscape.”
The association stressed that NANS draws its strength from established structures and democratic processes, urging the media and stakeholders to focus on engaging with the authentic leadership of the association.
“We urge the media and stakeholders to engage with the real structures of the organisation rather than amplifying the claims of the self-acclaimed president,” the statement read.
NANS reaffirmed its commitment to genuine student representation and said it remains determined to uphold the unity and dignity of Nigerian students.
It called on “genuine comrades to remain focused and united,” stressing that the group’s mission is too important to be sidetracked by internal distractions.
Finally, NANS warned that it will not allow itself to become a tool in the hands of individuals with hidden agendas. “The organisation’s mission is too important to be derailed by distractions,” the statement added.
