The National Association of Ogun State Students (NAOSS National) has strongly criticized a northern youth group for what it termed a "sponsored propaganda campaign" against Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun. The student body warned politicians against dragging the state into unnecessary political controversy.
Statement Condemns Reckless and Politically Motivated Actions
In a statement issued on Monday, NAOSS National President Aare Ajayi Oluwafemi (FM Castro) dismissed calls by the Arewa Youth Group for the impeachment of Governor Abiodun over alleged crises within the Progressive Governors' Forum. He described the move as reckless, inflammatory, and politically motivated.
Smear Campaign Aimed at Tarnishing Governor's Image
The student body accused the group of orchestrating a smear campaign intended to damage the governor's reputation and undermine his growing influence as Chairman of the Southern Governors' Forum. NAOSS insisted that internal disagreements within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) should not be turned into "media theatrics, blackmail, and political intimidation." It emphasized that governors within the party are mature enough to resolve their differences without threats or ultimatums.
Ultimatum Labeled as Ridiculous
The association described the reported 48-hour ultimatum issued to the governor as "ridiculous," arguing that Nigerians can already see through what it termed a desperate political agenda. NAOSS also warned against ethnic and regional politics, urging northern political actors allegedly pushing ahead of the 2027 elections to respect existing political arrangements and avoid heating up the polity against President Bola Tinubu.
Governor's Leadership Style Praised
According to the statement, Governor Abiodun's calm leadership style, political maturity, and increasing national relevance have become a source of envy among political opponents hiding under ethnic sentiments. NAOSS declared that Ogun youths and students across the country would resist any coordinated attempt to ridicule or destabilize the governor through falsehood and sponsored propaganda.
Call for Focus on Governance
The association urged the Ogun State House of Assembly to ignore what it called "political charlatans" bent on creating confusion, and instead remain focused on governance and development. Reaffirming support for the governor, Oluwafemi said millions of progressive-minded Ogun youths and students remain solidly behind Abiodun, whom he described as committed to the growth of the APC, national unity, and the success of the Tinubu administration.
"No amount of sponsored blackmail can diminish the contributions, influence, and political value of Governor Dapo Abiodun within the ruling party and across Nigeria," the statement added.
