The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Southwest Zone D, is urging tertiary institutions in Osun State to temporarily shut down prior to the August 15 gubernatorial election. The group cited escalating security threats as the primary reason for this request.
NANS has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Osun State government, security services, and school administrators to meet with student representatives. The goal is to establish clear strategies for ensuring the safety of the student body during the election season.
Comrade Adeyemo Josiah, the coordinator for NANS Southwest Zone D, explained that this decision stems from concerns raised by student union leaders regarding the volatile political atmosphere in student-populated areas. Josiah emphasized that students should not be caught in the crossfire of political instability.
While acknowledging that this request might disrupt academic schedules, Josiah maintained that student safety is the top priority. He stated that lectures and exams can be rescheduled, but human lives are irreplaceable. The association hopes for a constructive dialogue that leads to immediate safety commitments. If the government fails to respond within the week, NANS plans to organize peaceful, legal protests to defend the rights and welfare of students.
