Rising Political Tension: NANS Seeks Temporary Closure Of Osun Tertiary Institutions

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Southwest Zone D, has called for the temporary suspension of academic activities in tertiary institutions across Osun State ahead of the August 15 governorship election, citing growing concerns over political violence and the safety of students.

The association gave the Osun State Government, security agencies and heads of tertiary institutions a seven-day ultimatum to engage with student leaders on measures to safeguard students during the election period.

Addressing journalists at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Correspondents’ Chapel in Osogbo on Friday, the Coordinator of NANS Southwest Zone D, Comrade Adeyemo Josiah Kayode, said the position was reached in consultation with recognised student leadership structures across tertiary institutions in the state.

Kayode explained that the recommendation followed reports from Students’ Union Governments, campus leaders and other stakeholders indicating rising political tension in several communities where students reside.

According to him, a large number of students live in off-campus hostels and communities where political activities are taking place and commute daily to their campuses, exposing them to potential security risks.

“Our concern is simple: students are innocent members of society. They should never become victims of political violence because they chose to pursue an education in Osun State,” he said.

He stressed that the association’s recommendation was neither politically motivated nor intended to interfere with the statutory responsibilities of the government or management of tertiary institutions.

“This recommendation is neither political nor partisan. It is not intended to interfere with the statutory powers of institutional authorities or government. Rather, it is a precautionary measure made solely in the interest of protecting lives,” he stated.

Kayode argued that while academic activities could be rescheduled, the loss of lives would be irreversible.

“Academic calendars can be reviewed. Lectures can be rescheduled. Examinations can be postponed. But the life of a student cannot be replaced. We would rather take preventive action today than mourn avoidable losses tomorrow,” he added.

The NANS coordinator called on the state government, security agencies and management of tertiary institutions to immediately open discussions with student representatives on practical measures to guarantee students’ safety before, during and after the governorship election.

He warned that failure to initiate meaningful engagement within the seven-day period could compel the association, in consultation with recognised student leaders across the state, to embark on lawful and peaceful democratic actions to protect the welfare and constitutional rights of students.

“We believe dialogue remains the most responsible path. However, dialogue must produce action. Should there be no meaningful engagement or satisfactory response within this period, NANS Southwest Zone D, in consultation with recognised student leadership across Osun State, shall announce and commence lawful, peaceful and democratic actions considered necessary to protect the lives, welfare and constitutional rights of Nigerian students,” Kayode said.