Victor Ezeja
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has denied organising a protest against the hike in petrol price across the country.
This was a rebuttal to an earlier statement purportedly from NANS announcing a shutdown of all major cities across the country over the increase in petrol prices.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelAccording to the statement released Wednesday, the student body threatened to launch a massive shutdown beginning from 15 September 2024 in protest of the latest hike in petrol price.
In the statement, the students demanded an immediate reversal of the latest petrol price increase and the removal of the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, from office.
However, NANS Senate President, Afeez Akinteye, said the statement is false and urged the public to disregard it.
“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.
He said the aim of those behind such misinformation is to destabilise the country and create unnecessary tension among citizens.
READ ALSO: Petrol Prices Influenced By Forex, Market Forces – NNPCL
“We categorically disassociate ourselves from any such plans or intentions,” he stated.
The NANS Senate President called on security agencies to investigate the origin of the misinformation, adding that those responsible should be identified and held accountable.
“The use of the NANS name to propagate such dangerous and unfounded claims 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.
“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. We must collectively ensure that the integrity of our democratic processes and the rule of law are upheld at all times.
“NANS remains steadfast in its mission to advocate for the rights and welfare of Nigerian students. We will continue to pursue this mission through peaceful, lawful, and constructive channels. Let it be known that NANS stands firmly for peace, progress, and the unity of our nation.”
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with seven years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Master's degree in Mass Communication.
