NANS Cautions APC Youth Leader Over Campus Political Activities

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has issued a strong warning to the National Youth Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dayo Israel, over alleged plans to organise political programmes in tertiary institutions without involving recognised student bodies.

In a statement released by the Forum of NANS Zonal Coordinators, the student leaders accused the APC youth wing of attempting to collaborate with some state governments to host political events on campuses while excluding key stakeholders such as NANS executives, Joint Campus Committee (JCC) leaders and Students’ Union governments.

The coordinators described the move as unacceptable, stressing that students must not be used for political mobilisation or financial purposes without proper representation and engagement. They insisted that any activity involving students within higher institutions must first be discussed with elected student leaders and approved by relevant authorities.

According to the statement, the concern goes beyond politics, focusing on transparency, coordination and the overall safety of students. The forum warned that with the 2027 general elections drawing closer, campuses could become vulnerable to political tension, violence and security risks if such activities are not properly managed.

NANS also cautioned against transforming educational institutions into political grounds, noting that such actions could disrupt academic activities and threaten student welfare. The group urged Dayo Israel to avoid sidelining established student structures in any engagement involving young people on campuses.

The forum further called on state governments and school authorities to prioritise security and maintain neutrality by carefully reviewing any politically sensitive programmes before granting approval. It emphasised the need for thorough consultation and risk assessment to safeguard the academic environment.

While reaffirming its openness to constructive engagement with political stakeholders, NANS maintained that it would firmly resist any attempt to exploit students or expose them to danger under the guise of youth involvement.

Source: The Guardian Nigeria