The Joint Campus Committee (JCC) of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Ogun State axis, has distanced itself from a proposed protest over alleged harassment and intimidation by Governor Dapo Abiodun's Special Assistant on Student Affairs, Adeyemi Azeez Amoo, and the Ogun State Police Command.
Student Body Denounces Allegations
The student body described the allegations as unfounded, insisting that the claims were aimed at tarnishing the image of the governor’s aide and discrediting the police. In a statement signed by NANS Ogun JCC Chairman, Tijani Habeebullahi, the association urged individuals invited by the police for questioning to honour the invitation rather than resorting to protests and media campaigns.
Police Professionalism Commended
The group maintained that the Ogun State Police Command has consistently demonstrated professionalism and responsiveness in handling matters affecting students across the state. According to the statement, the command’s recent security interventions, including the rescue of abducted students in Sapade, the neutralisation of a suspected kidnap kingpin in the Ijebu area, and its response to allegations of police brutality involving students of Ogun State Institute of Technology (OGITECH), reflected its commitment to public safety.
The student leaders argued that police invitations for questioning should not be misconstrued as acts of intimidation, noting that law enforcement agencies are constitutionally empowered to investigate petitions and complaints brought before them.
Appeal for Restraint
Habeebullahi disclosed that following the circulation of videos allegedly showing an assault on the Special Assistant to the Governor on Student Affairs, he personally appealed to the aide to exercise restraint in the interest of peace. He said the governor’s aide subsequently urged his supporters to remain calm and avoid any retaliatory actions, a move that helped prevent further escalation of tensions.
The NANS chairman stressed that individuals with no case to answer should have no reason to evade police investigations. “If those invited are genuinely innocent and have nothing to hide, they should honour the police invitation and present their defence. That is the lawful process recognised in every civilised society,” he said.
Condemnation of Misconduct
The association also condemned what it described as the growing trend of some individuals allegedly hiding under the banner of student leadership to evade accountability for misconduct and unlawful acts. It recalled previous incidents in which some self-acclaimed student leaders were accused of assaulting individuals, disrupting public peace, and confronting law enforcement officers.
The group urged the police not to be distracted by what it termed attempts at blackmail or public manipulation, insisting that investigations should proceed without fear or favour.
Commitment to Due Process
Reaffirming its commitment to peace and responsible engagement, NANS Ogun JCC said student activism should not be used as a shield against lawful investigation and accountability. The association therefore called on all parties involved to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and allow due process to take its course.
