The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Ogun Joint Campus Committee (JCC), has strongly condemned the ongoing protests in Ogun State triggered by the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State. In a statement on Thursday, the chairman of the Ogun NANS JCC, Tijani Habeeblahi Adekunle, warned that the demonstrations are spreading panic and could worsen the already tense security situation.
Protests Risk Escalation
Adekunle expressed concern that the protests lack proper coordination and could spiral into chaos if not checked. He recalled how similar gatherings during the EndSARS protests degenerated into widespread violence and destruction, warning that hoodlums could exploit the current situation. The student leader accused protest organizers of using the sensitive security matter to attract social media attention, describing the demonstrations as “rudderless” and capable of creating unnecessary tension across the state.
Impact on Rescue Operations
While acknowledging that peaceful solidarity marches could be organized to sympathize with the victims of the Oyo abductions, Adekunle argued that the current protests lack structure and risk being hijacked by miscreants. He further cautioned that continued demonstrations could disrupt ongoing efforts by security agencies to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers. Such actions, he said, might distract authorities from delicate rescue operations and embolden criminal elements by creating an impression of rising disorder.
Commendation for Authorities
Adekunle commended the Ogun State Government and security agencies for their calm and professional handling of the situation, urging them to remain vigilant in maintaining public order. He reiterated the commitment of bona-fide students in the state to supporting efforts aimed at ensuring peace and the safe return of the abducted victims, stressing that such support must be channeled through lawful and responsible means.
Call for Calm and Focus
The statement urged parents, school authorities, and members of the public to remain cautious and avoid being drawn into actions capable of heightening tensions or being exploited for personal or political gains. Adekunle called on students across Ogun State to remain calm, focus on their academic activities, and avoid being mobilized for disruptive protests. He called for sustained collaboration between government and security agencies to secure the release of the victims and maintain peace in the region.
