The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has condemned remarks by former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (ADC) Omoyele Sowore describing the student body as “officially useless”.
A statement by NANS Senate President Comr. Akinteye Babatunde Afeez demanded retraction of the “disparaging remark” and an apology.
It vehemently rejected such “derogatory remarks” aimed at an association that has tirelessly advocated for students’ rights and welfare and have been instrumental to addressing issues such as inadequate funding for education, poor infrastructure in schools, and the overall improvement of the nation’s educational system.
The student body demanded that Sowore retract his statement and offer a public apology to NANS or risk the wrath of students.
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The statement reads in part:”It is disheartening to see a former student leader, who once understood the struggles and aspirations of Nigerian students, make such disparaging comments about an organisation that has been at the forefront of fighting for their rights. Sowore’s words not only undermine the hard work and dedication of NANS but also disregard the significant impact the organisation has had on the lives of students across the country.
“As a former student leader himself, Sowore should understand the power of unity and collective action among Nigerian students. Failure to retract his statement will not be taken lightly, and he will face the full wrath of Nigerian students who are prepared to defend the integrity of NANS and the rights of all students.
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“As stakeholders in the educational sector, we vehemently reject such derogatory remarks aimed at an organisation that has tirelessly advocated for their rights and welfare. We have been instrumental in addressing issues such as inadequate funding for education, poor infrastructure in schools, and the overall improvement of the educational system in Nigeria.
“Sowore should retract his statement and offer a public apology to NANS and the entire student body, he should understand the power of unity and collective action among Nigerian students, failure to retract his statement will not be taken lightly, and he will face the full wrath of Nigerian students who are prepared to defend the integrity of NANS and the rights of all students.
It is time for him to recognise the importance of constructive dialogue and collaboration in addressing the challenges facing the Nigerian educational system, rather than resorting to divisive rhetoric, we call on him to join hands with NANS and other stakeholders to work towards sustainable solutions that will benefit all Nigerian students.”
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