The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), South-West Zone D, has announced plans to commence a total but peaceful shutdown of academic activities across tertiary institutions in Osun State, citing growing concerns over political violence ahead of the state’s governorship election.
In a statement issued on Monday and jointly signed by the Zone D Coordinator, Adeyemo Josiah, Secretary-General Ojetola Babatunde, and Public Relations Officer Tope Olugbemi, the association said the decision followed what it described as an alarming rise in shootings, intimidation, and politically motivated killings across the state.
According to NANS, the worsening security situation no longer guarantees the safety of students or provides a conducive environment for learning.
“The prevailing atmosphere is no longer one that guarantees the safety of students or allows academic activities to continue without fear,” the statement read.
The student body expressed concern over reports of gunshots in communities surrounding several tertiary institutions, particularly at night, saying the incidents had heightened fear among students living both on and off campus.
NANS also faulted the absence of a comprehensive security plan to safeguard campuses, student hostels, neighbouring communities, and major transportation routes during the election period.
As part of its preparations, the association said all Joint Campus Council officials, Students’ Union Governments, senators, and other stakeholders had been placed on notice ahead of the proposed action.
It advised students to prepare to return peacefully to their homes until peace, stability, and adequate security are restored across the state, adding that the date, duration, and operational details of the planned shutdown would be communicated through official NANS and Students’ Union channels.
While affirming the constitutional right of students to participate in the electoral process, NANS warned politicians against exploiting undergraduates for political gain.
The association stressed that students should not be transported, profiled, pressured, or used merely as electoral statistics by political actors seeking votes.
It further urged students to protect their personal information, avoid boarding unmarked vehicles operated by unknown individuals, and vote based on competence, credibility, and commitment to education rather than intimidation, inducement, or campaign promises.
NANS maintained that the proposed shutdown is not politically motivated but is solely aimed at protecting the lives and welfare of students.
“This action is not politically sponsored. It is not directed toward promoting or opposing any political party or candidate. It is a necessary protective measure arising from our responsibility to defend the lives, welfare, and constitutional rights of Nigerian students,” the statement said.
The association warned political parties and their supporters against turning campuses into centres for political thuggery, insisting that no student should be targeted because of political affiliation or opinion.
It also cautioned students against participating in violent gatherings or taking the law into their own hands.
NANS called on Governor Ademola Adeleke, security agencies, heads of tertiary institutions, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to take immediate steps to restore peace and provide concrete security guarantees for students.
According to the association, its position will remain unchanged until the government engages student leaders and demonstrates credible commitment to ensuring the safety of students.
“Our campuses will not become killing fields. Our students will not be used as political tools. The safety of Nigerian students is not negotiable,” the statement concluded.
Comments