The Forum of Zonal Coordinators of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has advocated for constructive dialogue instead of protests in response to the recent increase in petrol prices. The coordinators emphasized that engaging in discussions with relevant stakeholders would be a more effective way to address the issue and find sustainable solutions, rather than demonstrations that could be exploited by individuals with ulterior motives.
NANS clarified that it has not called for any protests or demonstrations, urging the public to ignore any such calls from non-student groups with hidden agendas.
Speaking at a press conference on Saturday in Abuja, the chairman of the Forum, Comrade Bilal Kurfi, expressed sympathy for the student community affected by the economic challenges arising from the policies of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
“Instead of taking to the streets in protests that could be hijacked and escalate existing tensions, we believe dialogue, rather than confrontation, should be employed to resolve the current crisis. We are intellectuals, not street urchins or political thugs who can be hired to destabilize the country,” Kurfi stated.
He further emphasized that NANS remains committed to peaceful and constructive engagement and will not participate in activities that could compromise the safety and well-being of its members or the general public. Kurfi highlighted that the association intends to engage in dialogue with the federal government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to seek a reduction in petrol prices to alleviate the impact of inflation on students.
Kurfi also cautioned against protest calls from non-student groups posing as representatives of NANS, warning that such actions could destabilize the country. He reiterated that NANS prefers dialogue over actions that might be perceived as partisan and counterproductive to national unity and development.
The Forum urged the student community to remain patient and await NANS’ civil and democratic actions in response to the price hike. They expressed confidence that President Tinubu, whom they described as a sympathetic leader, will address their concerns.
Additionally, the Forum disassociated itself from a call for a nationwide protest and economic shutdown made by one Mr. Henry Adewumi Okunomo, reiterating their stance on dialogue as the preferred approach.
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