NANS, South West Zone, Demands Activation Of Unionism In Varsities

By Ayodele Oni

South West Zone of the National Association of Nigerians Students (NANS) has accused some higher institutions in the zone of frustrating unionism among the students.

The body explained that such institutions achieve this through draconian rules and oppressive decisions.

Coordinator, NANS Southwest Zone D, Owolewa Taiwo and Secretary,

Oluwole Olutunde in a statement noted that absence of functional Students’ Unions is a glaring affront to the rights and aspirations of Nigerian students.

“It has come to our attention that institutions such as Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, and notably the University of Lagos (UNILAG) still lack a functional Students’ Union.

“The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Zone D under my leadership believes that the absence of functional Students’ Unions is a glaring affront to the rights and aspirations of Nigerian students.

“We will not stand idle as students voices are silenced and their interests neglected in this institutions.

“Having exhausted the first two C’s of Aluta in advocating for the reinstatement of the Students’ Union at these campuses, we are left with the final C: Confrontation.

“Therefore, we hereby  issue  a 14 -day ultimatum to UNILAG, OSPOLY and LAUTECH to reinstate its Students’ Union. If this demand is not met, the association will mobilize a massive protest to disrupt academic activities and bring the issue to national attention.

“This absence undermines students’ rights and limits their ability to voice and safeguard their interests.

“Should this ultimatum pass without action, We are prepared to take decisive action to protect the rights of our Students in Zone D and we will not hesitate to use all available means, including mass protests to ensure that our demands are met.

“NANS zone D reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian student has representation within their academic institutions.”

The zonal NANS leadership commended the Federal Government for introducing Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses to enhance affordable and sustainable transportation in the Southwest.

“This initiative is a vital step toward alleviating the daily challenges faced by students and citizens across our region. In addition, we recognize the government’s support of the NelFund, which offers opportunity for students to pay their bills regardless of their background.”