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The  Indignity Of A Hero: The Professor Martin Aghaji Story

By
The Source
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Professor Martin Anthony Chukwumbudike Aghaji

By Ike Abonyi.

 

At what point in life or professional standing does one become immune to the indignities that can arise from the aggressive actions of overzealous law enforcement? Furthermore, what is the legal principle that asserts an individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law? How can the events that transpired in Enugu State and Lagos between July 3rd and July 5th, 2026, be reconciled with the concept of the rule of law, which mandates adherence to legal procedures? Professor Aghaji’s experience serves as a stark illustration of unchecked power and impunity.

 

At 74 years of age, Professor Martin Anthony Chukwumbudike Aghaji has achieved considerable distinction across various facets of his life: as a family man, an educator, an administrator, and most notably, as a medical practitioner.

 

Professor Aghaji served as a Consultant Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgeon at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital (UNTH). He is credited with pioneering two significant surgical feats in Nigeria: the first successful replacement of a Mitral Valve with a Mechanical Heart Valve in 1986, a procedure that allowed the patient to live for twenty-seven years, and the first successful replacement of an Aortic Valve with a Mechanical Heart Valve. An alumnus of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, he graduated as the Best Student of the MB BCH Class of 1977. His academic credentials also include studies at the University of London, renowned for its expertise in open-heart surgery. He also held the position of the founding Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo, Benue State. The immeasurable value of a life dedicated to healing others is difficult to quantify.

 

For Emeritus Professor Aghaji, an internationally recognised cardiothoracic surgeon and one of Nigeria’s preeminent cardiologists, a lifetime of dedicated service was met not with appreciation, but with fear. He recounted his harrowing experience to me with profound emotion and tears, stating unequivocally, “No one should endure the treatment I received, regardless of the circumstances.”

 

At 2:30 a.m. on Friday, July 3rd, 2026, during a time of widespread repose, the sanctity of this esteemed healer’s residence in Independent Layout, Enugu, was violently violated. Approximately 30 operatives from the Department of State Services (DSS), heavily armed as if confronting a major terrorist, breached his home. There was no prior notification, no official summons, and no response to any attempted contact. His age, professional standing, and substantial contributions to medicine and society were utterly disregarded.

 

In the darkness of the night, this venerable elder statesman and his visiting daughter, who was staying with him while his wife was abroad visiting their children, were forcibly removed from their home, treated as common criminals. The operatives, employing commando-style tactics, attempted to scale the fence but were deterred by barbed wire. They subsequently broke through the wall and forced entry through the doors. To Professor Aghaji and his household, the intrusion evoked the terror of robbers and kidnappers, prompting attempts to alert neighbours and the police.

 

One can only imagine the profound terror of that moment. Consider the anguish of a man who has dedicated his life to repairing damaged hearts, now helpless as his own home is subjected to violent intrusion. Imagine the trauma inflicted upon his daughter as they were dragged into the night.

 

They were transported to the Enugu DSS office and subsequently moved to Lagos on Saturday. The daughter was eventually released upon confirmation that she was not the target individual. This distinguished elder was stripped of his dignity and peace. For hours that felt like an eternity, he was held in a state of agonising uncertainty. The most distressing aspect? He was never informed of any alleged offence. Even in Lagos, no clear justification was provided for this demeaning and humiliating action. He was denied the fundamental human right to know the basis for being treated as a perceived threat to the state.

 

How did this ordeal conclude? With a perfunctory apology. After subjecting an elderly, world-renowned professor to unimaginable psychological and physical distress, the DSS operatives in Lagos offered a simple apology and his release, citing a mistake. The Lagos DSS had apparently failed to conduct adequate due diligence, merely instructing Enugu to apprehend the alleged “criminal.” They also neglected proper profiling and chose to strike in the dead of night. For three days, until Sunday, the 74-year-old professor remained in a state of shock, without any explanation. There was no accountability, only a “sorry” for the destruction of his property, the disruption of his home, and the shattering of his peace of mind. How can any apology compensate for the trauma of a 2:30 a.m. raid? An apology cannot mend the psychological scars inflicted upon his daughter. An apology does not restore the dignity so carelessly trampled upon by an agency charged with citizen protection.

 

If a figure of Professor Aghaji’s eminence—a true pioneer in Nigerian medicine—can be subjected to such blatant lawlessness and disrespect, then who among us is truly secure? This incident is not merely an affront to the Professor and his family; it represents a profound blemish on our collective justice system. We demand more than a quiet apology. We insist on accountability and justice for the psychological torment inflicted upon a national asset.

 

As Professor Aghaji contemplated the reasons for such treatment, he recalled having recently attended to an imprisoned IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. However, he could not fathom any professional conduct that would warrant such humiliation. When asked about his next steps, the emotionally distressed cardiologist stated, “I have lodged a complaint with the Enugu State governor, Peter Mbah, requesting his intervention to ascertain the reason for my profound humiliation.”

 

He added, “I am awaiting a response, and a consulting professional should not be treated in such a manner, even if they have committed an offence and refused an invitation.”

 

It is deeply regrettable when institutions meant to safeguard citizens instead treat them as adversaries and common criminals. If a medical practitioner of Professor Aghaji’s age and stature can be subjected to such treatment, how can we fault the disillusionment of younger doctors who crowd foreign embassies in Lagos and Abuja in search of a visa to run away from their fatherland? May divine mercy be upon us.

 

Ike Abonyi is Editor @Large

Africa Lacks Visionary Leaders – Peter Obi

By
Ayodele Oni
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Peter Obi
Mr Peter Obi

By Ayodele Oni

 

The Presidential Candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has observed that Africa’s continent’s greatest challenge is not the lack of resources, but the absence of visionary leadership capable of translating its potential into sustainable prosperity.

 

According to Obi, “The missing link is competent leadership with capacity, compassion, character and commitment to good governance,” he said, adding that effective leadership would unlock Africa’s economic opportunities and improve the lives of its people.

 

Obi made the remarks while delivering a keynote address at Mandela Hall, African Union Permanent Observer Mission to the United Nations in New York, on Friday, during a forum on “The Role of the Diaspora African in Sustainable Development across Africa.”

 

He called on Africans living in the diaspora to play a more active role in advancing good governance and sustainable development across the continent, stressing that their voices remain vital whenever Africa faces challenges.

 

In a statement posted on his Facebook page on Sunday, the former Anambra State governor stated that Africans living abroad have a unique opportunity and responsibility to influence positive change on the continent, having experienced societies where institutions are stronger and public accountability is more effective.

 

“Even where you cannot vote, your voices matter. They should be heard both at home and abroad whenever things are going wrong on our continent.

 

“Stand firmly for what is right. Speak truth to the leaders who visit you. Let them know where they are getting it wrong,” Obi said.

 

He described Africa as a continent richly endowed with natural resources and a youthful population, noting that its vast mineral wealth, extensive arable land and over 1.5 billion people provide the foundation for becoming a global economic and food production powerhouse.

 

Obi also pointed to the experiences of countries such as Japan, China and India, saying their diaspora communities played key roles in driving economic growth, technological advancement and national development.

 

He urged African governments to create an enabling environment that would encourage skilled professionals in the diaspora to contribute their expertise, particularly in healthcare, education, technology and innovation.

 

The NDC presidential candidate further appealed to Africans abroad to support campaigns for free, fair and credible elections across the continent, describing electoral integrity as the bedrock of accountable governance.

 

“When we create the enabling environment necessary for sustainable development, we start unlocking Africa’s potential,” Obi said.

 

He urged Africans both at home and in the diaspora to work collectively towards building a continent founded on unity, peace, shared prosperity and sustainable development

APC Youth Wing Lauds Shettima’s Renomination As Tinubu’s Running Mate

By
Ayodele Oni
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VP Kashim Shettima
VP Kashim Shettima

By Ayodele Oni

 

The National Youth Wing of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has ascribed renomination of Kashim Shettima as the party’s vice-presidential candidate for the 2027 general election, to his competence, loyalty and exemplary service to the nation.

 

In a statement by the APC National Youth Leader, Dr. Dayo Israel, the youth wing said Shettima’s renomination alongside President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reflects the party’s confidence in a tested leadership partnership that has driven the Renewed Hope Agenda over the past three years.

 

According to him, the Vice President has distinguished himself through unwavering commitment, humility, intellectual capacity and dedication to national development, earning the trust of the party leadership and Nigerians.

 

The youth leader noted that Shettima’s calm disposition, wealth of experience and steadfast support for President Tinubu have strengthened governance and contributed significantly to the administration’s efforts at economic recovery, national unity and institutional development.

 

Dr. Israel stated that the APC believes leadership should be anchored on service, teamwork, character and performance, adding that the Vice President’s renomination sends a strong signal that these values remain the foundation of the ruling party.

 

He recalled that members of the National Working Committee formally received the nomination forms in Abuja, describing the event as more than a routine political exercise, but a reaffirmation of confidence in the Tinubu-Shettima partnership.

 

He pledged its unwavering support for the Tinubu-Shettima ticket ahead of the 2027 presidential election, expressing optimism that the administration would continue to implement policies aimed at strengthening the economy, creating opportunities for young Nigerians and advancing national development.

 

Dr. Israel congratulated the Vice President on his renomination and prayed for divine wisdom, strength and guidance as he prepares for another term of national service alongside President Tinubu

Release Of Oyo Kidnap Victims: In Victory, President Tinubu Failed Nigerians – Atiku

By
Adesina Soyooye
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By Adesina Soyooye

 

Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has faulted the handling of the release of the Oyo State kidnap victims by President Bola Tinubu.

 

Atiku  who is the  Presidential Candidate of the Action Democratic Congress, ADC, while  welcoming the heart-warming news of their freedom, urged President Tinubu to prioritise security over campaign activities for the 2027 general elections.

 

Reacting in a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku hailed the courage, professionalism and sacrifice of the officers and men of the Nigerian Armed Forces as well as other security agencies whose gallantry gave rise to success of the  operation.

 

Aiku: “No serious government should be consumed by the politics of re-election while innocent schoolchildren have remained in the custody of kidnappers for weeks. The first campaign of any responsible administration must be the campaign to rescue its citizens, restore security and reassure anxious families. Politics can wait; the lives of innocent children cannot.

 

“Yesterday (July 10) should have been dedicated to the war room, not the campaign room.

 

“What Nigerians expected yesterday was to see a Commander-in-Chief leading from the front.

 

“Following the successful rescue operation, the President ought to have immediately addressed the nation alongside his defence chiefs, not merely to announce the good news, but to brief Nigerians on the operation, acknowledge the bravery of the troops, highlight the lessons learned, reassure families that no effort would be spared to rescue those still in captivity, and send an unmistakable message to bandits and terrorists that the Nigerian state remains resolute.

 

“Such moments are not ordinary press events; they are defining demonstrations of leadership that strengthen public confidence, boost military morale, and remind criminal elements that they are confronting a government that neither sleeps nor surrenders.

 

“Instead, the responsibility of announcing one of the most significant security successes in recent times was left to the President’s spokesman while the President remained publicly engaged in political activities.

 

“When our troops accomplish a difficult mission, they deserve visible presidential recognition. When citizens witness their President speaking with conviction after such an operation, they draw strength and confidence.

 

“Equally, those who seek to terrorise our people are reminded that they are confronting a united and determined state. The opposite risks creating an unfortunate perception that politics has taken precedence over the solemn responsibility of securing the nation.”

NBA Electoral Committee Chairman Insists Election Will Hold Saturday As Member Raises Allegation Of Credibility

By
Ayodele Oni
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NBA

By Ayodele Oni

 

The election of the Nigerian Bar Association, (NBA) slated for Saturday is being threatened as a member raised the issue of credibility of the Chairman Chairman of the electoral committee, Chief Aham Ejelam, SAN.

 

The Chairman of the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA), Chief

Ejelam, SAN has however insisted that  there is no going back on the July 18 date for lawyers in Nigeria to elect new national leaders that will pilot the affairs of their association and legal profession.

 

His statement was against the backdrop of a call from Chief Yomi Alliyu, SAN, in which he advised Ejelam to resign as Chairman of the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA).

 

Ejelam who is leading the electoral body, that will supervise the election, vowed not to resign his appointment no matter the blackmail and threats from the opposing individuals.

 

In a statement on Sunday, the election committee chairman maintained that  “The election remains scheduled for Saturday, 18 July 2026, in accordance with the revised timetable published by the ECNBA.”

 

The Committee has publicly reiterated that the process will continue unless altered by a competent constitutional authority.

 

Ejelam’s statement reads:  “I have read the open letter dated 11 July 2026, authored by my learned friend and call-mate, Chief Yomi Alliyu, SAN, in which he called upon me to resign as Chairman of the Electoral Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (ECNBA).

 

“Ordinarily, I would not respond to a publication founded on fabricated assumptions, unverified allegations and matters presently awaiting judicial determination.

 

“However, because his letter seeks to question the integrity of the ECNBA and may mislead members of the Nigerian Bar Association, it has become necessary to place a few facts on record.

 

“My acceptance of the chairmanship of the ECNBA was not motivated by personal ambition, political patronage or any promise of reward.

 

“It was an acceptance of a difficult professional responsibility at a critical moment in the history of the Bar.

 

“I will not abandon that responsibility merely because Yomi Aliyu, SAN, is unhappy that I occupy that position.

 

“He has alleged that I am corrupt without presenting credible evidence of corruption.

 

“The repeated use of condemnatory expressions cannot transform conjecture into fact, nor can the threat of reputational damage substitute for proof. There are legal consequences for false accusations.

 

“My record of service to the legal profession spans several decades. I am prepared to have my conduct examined against the NBA Constitution, the applicable electoral guidelines and verifiable evidence, not against personal opinions, political disagreements or speculative questions presented as established facts.

 

“The Electoral Committee derives its authority from the Constitution of the Nigerian Bar Association and the decisions of the Association’s competent organs.

 

“The constitution of the Committee was presented to the National Executive Council of the NBA. Due process was followed in establishing the ECNBA.

 

Nobody can unilaterally dissolve the Committee, declare its members illegitimate or demand their resignation outside the mechanisms provided by the NBA Constitution.

 

“The ECNBA remains bound by the Constitution and will continue to discharge its mandate unless otherwise directed by a competent organ of the Association or a court of competent jurisdiction.

 

“The suggestion that the election service provider was imposed upon the ECNBA, or that I accepted a service provider at the direction of any interested person, is false.

 

‘The Committee considered the information and representations placed before it in the course of the procurement and engagement process.

 

“The legal structure of a service provider, without more, does not establish incompetence, illegality or electoral compromise.

 

“Similarly, an allegation concerning the filing of annual returns at the Corporate Affairs Commission does not, by itself, establish that the provider lacks the technical competence to perform the contracted services or that the ECNBA has engaged in wrongdoing.

 

“Any person possessing credible evidence that the service provider has manipulated a previous election, unlawfully obtained members’ data or compromised the present process should submit that evidence formally to the Committee or to the appropriate investigative authority.

 

“Serious allegations cannot responsibly be sustained through insinuations in an open letter. The said service provider was never given any opportunity by any Committee to respond to such unfounded allegations by a partisan group.

 

“The ECNBA has not authorised any person to deploy unlawfully acquired data for the 2026 NBA National Officers’ Election.”

Ten Killed In Suspected Herdsmen Attack On Otukpo Communities

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Gunmen

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

 

The Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia has strongly condemned the attack on, and killings of no fewer than 10 persons in Otukpo Local Council by suspected armed herdsmen.

 

This is as Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro, lamented the worsening security crisis in the state of recent.

 

The Source reports that some suspected armed herdsmen launched multiple dusk to dawn attack on the twin communities of Akpachi-Ugboju and Otukpo-Nobi between Saturday night and the wee hours of Sunday, killing about ten persons and left several others injured ,and displaced.

 

Local witness accounts informed that the attackers in their numbers  invaded Ugboju community at about midnight on Saturday where two people were reportedly killed, before attacking Otukpo-Nobi at about 5 am on Sunday, and murdered eight people.

 

According to the locals, residents were taken by surprise as they were deep asleep when the attackers came calling.

 

However, incensed by the latest orgy of bloodletting, residents on Sunday morning staged a peaceful protest match to the palace of the traditional ruler of Idoma , the Och’Idoma ,His Royal Majesty Dr John Odogbo Eliagwu.

 

Brandishing the bodies of the victims, the aggrieved residents called for an immediate intervention and enhanced security in the area, as well as the arrest and prosecution of the masterminds.

 

Governor Alia, in a statement from Tersoo Kula, his spokesperson described the killings as barbaric, inhuman ,and a direct assault on the peace and stability of the state.

 

The Governor who blamed the attack and killings on suspected armed herdsmen, regretted the loss of innocent residents as well as several injured and displaced people.

 

This is as he directed security agencies to enhance security in the affected areas, through intensified surveillance and patrols.

 

He also called on security agencies to collaborate with security operatives in neighbouring states, with a view to fishing out the perpetrators of the attack and killings.

 

While suing for calm among residents, the Governor reaffirmed the determination and commitment of his administration towards adequately protecting lives and properties of the people.

 

Reacting to the development , the Senator representing Benue South at the National Assembly, Moro who confirmed the number of casualties in the two affected communities, expressed worries that the security challenges in the state , rather than abetting , have continued to escalate.

 

He expressed fears that if not urgently checked ,the growing level of crisis in parts of the state , could snowball into a major national problem.

 

He called on Government at all levels to rise to the occasion and ensure adequate protection for the people.

 

There are insinuations that the unfortunate development may have been a reprisal attack by the suspected herdsmen over the killing of the Benue state Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association MACBAN Ardo Risku Mohammad.

 

The source further reports that the MACBAN State Chairman, and his associate Isah Mairiga were, on July 1,2026, ambushed and killed by armed hoodlums within Okudu Community in Otukpo Local Government Area of the state  while returning from a  peace meeting held in Ohinimini Local Council.

 

Although security operatives have since  apprehended about 17 suspects including an 80-old and four local chiefs in connection with the murder of the Miyetti Allah leader, tension and apprehension of possible reprisal attacks by suspected herdsmen had continued to pervade the affected areas.

 

As at the time of reporting, there was no official response from the Police in the State.

Kachalla Sani Yellow, Zamfara Bandit Kingpin Killed By CJTF In Gun Duel

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Kachalla Sani Yellow

By Akinwale Kasali

 

The Zamfara State Civilian Joint Task Force, CJTF, have recorded a landmark victory. It has killed notorious bandit Commander, Kachalla Sani Yellow.

 

It was gathered that Sani Yellow was killed by local hunters and members of the CJTF.

 

Sani Yellow was reportedly killed in Anka Local Government Area of the state after a gun battle between the vigilantes and a group of armed bandits who attempted to attack the area.

 

The CJTF and other Security Volunteers successfully repelled the attack, during which Sani Yellow, regarded as one of the influential commanders operating in Zamfara, was neutralised.

 

The late Bandit Commander terrorised communities across Anka, Bukkuyum and Maru Local Government Areas, and was linked to several attacks in parts of the North-West region.

 

He was also among the bandit commanders accused of coordinating violent operations against rural communities, including attacks, abductions and other criminal activities.

 

The killing of the notorious bandit was confirmed by the Zamfara State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Yazid Abubakar, who said the killing of the bandit commander had been reported and is being celebrated among the people of the State, who took to the streets to jubilate over the CJTF triumph.

 

The picture of the late notorious bandit has been trending on social media.

FUOYE Graduating Student Commends President Tinubu on NELFUND

By
Ayodele Oni
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FUOYE Nelfund

By Ayodele Oni

 

A graduating student of the Federal University Oye Ekiti (FUOYE) has expressed appreciation to President Bola  Tinubu, for the positive impact of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) on students across the country.

 

Senior Special Assistant, (SSA), to the president on students’ matters, Comrade Sunday Dayo Asefon who disclosed this in a post on his Facebook account on Sunday, did not mention name of the student.

 

Asefon write “According to the student, the NELFUND initiative played a significant role in easing financial burdens and supporting the successful completion of his academic journey.

 

“He noted that the programme has provided hope and opportunities for many students who would have otherwise struggled to finance their education.

 

“The student described NELFUND as a clear demonstration of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration, stating that its benefits are evident everywhere one goes across Nigerian campuses.

 

“He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing education and investing in the future of Nigerian youths through policies that make higher education more accessible and affordable.

 

“NELFUND has been a lifeline for many students. Its impact is visible, and it stands as strong evidence of the Renewed Hope Agenda in action.

 

“I sincerely appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for this transformative initiative, the student said.

Ekiti Gets World Bank Support For Three Meteorological Stations

By
Ayodele Oni
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Biodun Oyebanji

By Ayodele Oni

 

The World Bank has approved the installation of three agro-meteorological stations across Ekiti State, as part of efforts to strengthen climate-smart livestock production and agricultural resilience,

 

The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Ebenezer Boluwade, revealed that the project, under the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project, marked another milestone in the Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s administration’s drive to deploy technology and innovation to transform the agricultural sector.

 

The L-PRES project, a World Bank-supported initiative, aims to improve livestock productivity and build resilience to climate change among stakeholders in the livestock value chain across Nigeria.

 

Boluwade, in a statement issued in Ado Ekiti on Sunday, said the stations would be located at the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security Complex, Ado Ekiti; the State Agricultural Development Programme Complex, Ikole Ekiti; and the Faculty of Agriculture, Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere Ekiti.

 

He stated that the approval of the BOUESTI location completed the strategic distribution of the three stations across the state’s major agro-ecological zones — Savannah, Derived Savannah and Forest — to ensure wider coverage for climate observation, agricultural planning and research.

 

“The stations will provide real-time data on rainfall, temperature, humidity, wind speed, solar radiation and other critical weather conditions.

 

“The data generated from the stations will give livestock farmers, extension officers, veterinary professionals, researchers and policymakers reliable climate intelligence to support livestock production, pasture management, water resource use, disease surveillance and climate risk management.

 

“The stations will also strengthen Ekiti’s early warning system for extreme weather events, enabling proactive responses to climate-related challenges, improved evidence-based planning and enhanced productivity across the livestock and agricultural sectors,” he added.

 

Boluwade said the initiative reflected Governor Oyebanji’s commitment to sustainable agricultural development through innovation, technology and data-driven solutions.

 

He explained that the project aligned with the broader objectives of L-PRES to improve livestock productivity, build climate resilience and promote sustainable livestock development.

 

The commissioner expressed optimism that the project would boost food security, improve livelihoods across the livestock value chain and position Ekiti as a leading state in climate-smart agriculture.

NANS Rejects Upward Review Of Registration Fees For WAEC, NECO Exams

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
National Association of Nigerian Students - NANS

By Ayodele Oni

 

The National Association of Nigerian Students, (NANS) has rejected the upward review of registration fees for examinations conducted by both the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO).

 

The association is of the view that the increase will overstretch students and their parents, who are already confronted by the harsh economic situation in the country.

 

NANS position was contained in a statement on Sunday by its president, Akinteye Babatunde.

 

The statement reads: “The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) vehemently denounces the approval of the upward review of registration fees for examinations conducted by both the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) by the Honourable Minister of Education, as well as the proposal of such an increase in the first instance by the Registrars of both examination bodies.

 

“This is cruelty in its purest form. At this critical juncture, when our nation is undergoing economic reforms that have significantly overstretched the average Nigerian

 

“It is only inhumane to increase fees for national examinations at a time when the government should be putting measures in place to cushion the effects of the economic reforms.

 

“It is deeply painful that the registration fees for both WAEC and NECO have now been increased to #50,000 each, bringing the total to #100,000 even before schools add their own charges.

 

“Are we now saying that children of the poor should no longer have access to education? This level of hardship is unbearable.

 

“Unfortunately, the consequences and public backlash will ultimately be directed at Mr. President, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, who is clearly not part of this decision-making process.

 

“If the Federal Ministry of Education and the leadership of both the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the National Examinations Council (NECO) cannot, in good conscience, make these examinations affordable and accessible to the average Nigerian student who intends to sit for them, then the very least they owe this nation is the restraint not to overstretch students and their parents, who are already bent under the weight of economic reforms.

 

“This is not the season to test how much more Nigerians can absorb. It is a season that demands relief, not another bill placed at the doorstep of households already choosing, daily, between survival and sacrifice.”

 

“To increase examination fees at such a time is not merely poor timing; it is a failure of empathy at the highest level of policy-making.

 

“The decision by the Honourable Minister of Education to approve an upward review of the examination fees was taken without due process and without due regard for the economic realities facing ordinary Nigerian students.

 

“More disturbing is the fact that this decision was made without engaging the apex students’ body, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), or consulting the leadership of Nigerian students, who will bear the direct consequences of this policy.

 

“A decision of this magnitude, affecting millions of students across the country, cannot be made unilaterally by the Ministry of Education. Anything for us, without us, is against us.

 

“In the foregoing, we vehemently denounce the upward review of these fees and call on the Federal Ministry of Education to immediately reverse this decision in the best interest of Nigerian students and the nation at large.

 

“Furthermore, the Federal Ministry of Education must, henceforth, consult the apex leadership of Nigerian students when making decisions that directly affect them.

 

“The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) will continue to speak for the overall well-being of Nigerian students.”

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