NANS Threatens Shutdown of Osun Campuses Over Rising Election Violence.

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), South West Zone D, has announced plans to embark on a peaceful shutdown of academic activities across tertiary institutions in Osun State, citing growing insecurity and political violence ahead of the state’s governorship election.

According to a report by The Punch, the student body said the decision followed an increase in political clashes, shootings, intimidation and politically related killings across the state, raising fears over the safety of students on and off campus.

In a statement jointly signed by the Zone D Coordinator, Adeyemo Josiah, Secretary General, Ojetola Babatunde, and Public Relations Officer, Tope Olugbemi, NANS said the current security situation no longer guarantees a safe environment for learning.

The association noted that reports of gunfire in communities surrounding some tertiary institutions, particularly at night, have created widespread fear among students. It also expressed concern over the absence of a comprehensive security plan to protect campuses, student hostels, surrounding communities and major transport routes during the election period.

NANS disclosed that all its structures, including Joint Campus Council officials, Students’ Union Governments and other stakeholders, have been placed on alert ahead of the planned action. It, however, stated that the date and duration of the shutdown would be communicated through official NANS and Students’ Union channels.

The student body clarified that the planned action is not politically motivated but is intended to safeguard the lives and welfare of students. It warned political parties against using campuses as recruitment grounds for political thuggery or exploiting students for electoral purposes.

While encouraging students to exercise their constitutional right to vote, NANS urged them to support candidates based on competence, credibility and commitment to education rather than intimidation, inducement or political pressure.

The association also advised students to avoid sharing personal information with unknown individuals, reject suspicious transportation arrangements and stay away from violent political gatherings.

NANS called on Governor Ademola Adeleke, security agencies, tertiary institution managements, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), traditional rulers, religious leaders and civil society organisations to strengthen security measures and provide credible guarantees for students’ safety.

The association maintained that its position would remain unchanged until authorities engage student leaders and implement effective security measures, insisting that the protection of students must take priority over political interests.