Education
Ogun students community withdraw from hardship protest

The National Association of Ogun State Students (NAOSS) and the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) have withdrawn from the ongoing nationwide protest against hunger and poor governance.
The student association had earlier staged a rally against the planned protest on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, in Abeokuta, Nigeria.
The #EndBadGovernance protest had been billed to commence across all the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria from August 1-10.
The students voiced concerns that the planned protest could be hijacked by hoodlums, leading to chaos and disrupting the country’s peace.
The National President of NAOSS, Thomas Kehinde, while speaking at the rally, urged students not to participate in the nationwide protests.
Thomas Kehinde’s speech in Ogun State
Kehinde emphasised that the student community in Ogun will not participate in the planned nationwide protests.
He said: “We, the leaders of the collective student structures in Ogun State have staged this rally to emphasise that the student community in Ogun State will not be part of the planned nationwide protests.
“As you are aware, the organisers of the protests are mobilising across the country in preparation for the march against the current economic hardship in the country.
“Though we are not against any group or groups protesting, we are using this avenue to declare our intention and readiness not to be part of these protests.
“To this end, we are calling on students in Ogun State not to join any protest and to shun any calls to participate in anyone under the guise of nationwide protests.”
Why we back out
NAOSS National President, while explaining further on reasons for backing out, said the protests could be hijacked.
He expressed concerns that hoodlums could cash in to loot, rob and vandalise public and private infrastructure.
He continues: “Though planners of the protests said that they would be organised in a peaceful manner; that is easier said than done.
“We want to caution that such protests could be hijacked by the hoodlums to perpetrate looting, robbery, and vandalisation of both public and private infrastructure as well as attacks on targeted personalities.
“Also, clandestine factors could come into play and thereby escalate the situation from just a peaceful protest to violence and ill wind which blows anybody good.
“As Nigerians, the bitter experience of the EndSARS protests is still lingering in our memories.
“Therefore, to avoid the replay of the wanton destruction and alleged killings that accompanied the EndSARS protests, we hereby emphasize that students in Ogun should stay away from the nationwide protests.
“Leaderships of student associations in Ogun State as organised associations dedicated to serving the interests of students will never drive their members to participate in activities that have a high propensity of leading in violence and destruction.
“Therefore, we urge students in the State to remain calm and continue to believe in the ability of their leaders to champion the cause of their welfare and well-being in manners devoid of violence”.
About NAOSS
The National Association of Ogun State Students (NAOSS) is a student organization that aims to promote the welfare and interests of students from Ogun State, Nigeria.
Here are some key points about NAOSS:
Membership
NAOSS membership is open to all students from Ogun State, regardless of their institution or location.
Its objectives include uniting Ogun students, promote their welfare, and contribute to the development of the state.
Activities
NAOSS organizes seminars, workshops, cultural events, and community service projects.
It has an executive council led by a President, Vice President, and other officials.
The group has chapters in various institutions and locations, both within and outside Nigeria.
Focus areas
NAOSS has its focus in areas of education, health, empowerment and cultural heritage.
It partners with other student organizations, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.
About NANS
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) is a student organization that represents Nigerian students at home and abroad.
Here are some key points about NANS:
It was founded in 1980 with membership open for All Nigerian students, regardless of institution or location.
Objectives:
NANS promote students’ welfare and rights and foster unity and solidarity among Nigerian students.
It also contributes to national development and progress, especially among various students’ bodies.
Activities:
NANS organizes protests, rallies and campaigns on issues affecting students and the nation.
It provides scholarships, awards and support to students, collaborating with government agencies and other bodies.
Leadership:
NANS is led by a National President and other elected officials of the organization.
Its zonal and chapter structures ensure representation across Nigeria.
Focus areas:
It ensures access to quality and affordable education, as well as students’ welfare including health, accommodation, and security.
It also delves into national issues affecting good governance, corruption, and human rights.
Impact:
NANS influences government policies and decisions on education, giving support and resources to students in need.
It has played and continues to play a major role in shaping Nigeria’s political and social landscape.
For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook