NANS Denies Organizing Protest Against Petrol Price Hike

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has refuted claims that it is organizing a protest against the recent hike in petrol prices.

This denial follows the circulation of a statement allegedly from NANS, which announced plans to shut down major cities across the nation in protest against the petrol price increase. The statement, dated September 15, 2024, also called for the reversal of the price hike and demanded the removal of the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPCL), Mele Kyari.

However, NANS Senate President, Afeez Akinteye, dismissed the statement as baseless. He urged security agencies to investigate the source of the misinformation.

“We strongly advise the public, media, and stakeholders to disregard these misleading reports. The entities behind these rumors are anonymous and seek to exploit the NANS name for their malicious intent,” Akinteye stated.

He continued, “Their goal is to destabilize the country and create unnecessary tension among the populace. We categorically distance ourselves from any such plans or intentions.”

Akinteye also called on security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation to identify and hold accountable those responsible for spreading these falsehoods.

“Using the NANS name to propagate such dangerous and unfounded claims is not only a threat to national security but also a disservice to the millions of students who genuinely seek positive change through legitimate means,” he added.

Furthermore, he urged security agencies to take decisive action against any individuals or groups attempting to misuse the NANS name to incite unrest or disrupt national peace. “We must collectively ensure that the integrity of our democratic processes and the rule of law are upheld at all times,” he emphasized.

Akinteye concluded by reaffirming NANS’ commitment to advocating for the rights and welfare of Nigerian students through peaceful, lawful, and constructive means. “Let it be known that NANS stands firmly for peace, progress, and the unity of our nation,” he said.

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