The National Association of Nigerian Students has threatened to shut down academic activities in tertiary institutions across Osun State over alleged rising political violence ahead of the governorship election.
The association said the planned action was aimed at protecting students from insecurity linked to the electioneering period.
NANS made its position known in a statement issued on Monday in Ibadan.
The statement was jointly signed by the Southwest Zone D Coordinator, Josiah Adeyemo; Secretary-General, Babatunde Ojetola; and Public Relations Officer, Tope Olugbemi.
The student body said it would direct students to return home if the security situation in the state did not improve.
According to NANS, reports of alleged shootings, intimidation and politically related killings in parts of Osun have created fear among students.
It said the situation was particularly concerning for students living both on campus and in off-campus hostels.
The association said the current atmosphere no longer guaranteed a safe and conducive environment for learning.
NANS also expressed concern over what it described as inadequate security arrangements for campuses, student hostels, host communities and major transport routes during the election period.
The association said students should not be expected to attend lectures where violence appears to be increasing.
It added that innocent residents and students should not become victims of political conflicts they did not create.
NANS further alleged that some political actors were mobilising students for voter registration and other election-related activities.
The association said students have a constitutional right to take part in democratic processes.
It, however, warned against using students for political manipulation, intimidation or violence.
NANS advised students not to release sensitive personal information to unknown persons.
It also warned them against boarding unmarked vehicles operated by unidentified individuals.
The association urged students to vote based on conscience, competence and candidates’ commitment to education.
It cautioned students against being influenced by inducement, fear or intimidation.
NANS said its structures, including Joint Campus Council officials, Students’ Union Governments and other stakeholders, had been placed on notice.
It said they should prepare for a total but peaceful shutdown of academic activities across tertiary institutions in Osun State if necessary.
The association added that the date, duration and operational details of the planned action would be announced through recognised NANS and Students’ Union channels.
NANS insisted that the proposed shutdown was not sponsored by any political party or candidate.
It said the action was not intended to support or oppose any political interest, but to protect students.
The student body warned political parties and their supporters not to turn campuses into centres for violence or recruitment of political thugs.
It said any political organisation found exploiting, threatening, manipulating or endangering students would be documented and exposed publicly.
NANS also urged students to avoid violent gatherings and stay away from weapons or any form of political violence.
The association called on the Osun State Government and election stakeholders to take urgent steps to restore confidence and guarantee student safety.
It said its position would remain “No security, no academic activities” until credible safety assurances were given and student leaders were properly engaged.
