The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Ogun Joint Campus Committee (JCC), has condemned the continued protests in the state over the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State, warning that the demonstrations are spreading panic and could worsen security tensions.

The Chairman of the Ogun NANS JCC, Tijani Habeeblahi Adekunle, in a statement on Thursday, expressed concern that the ongoing protests were becoming poorly coordinated and capable of escalating into chaos if not checked.

Adekunle warned that the situation could be exploited by hoodlums, recalling how similar gatherings degenerated during the EndSARS protests and led to widespread violence and destruction.

He accused organisers of the demonstrations of using the sensitive security situation to attract social media attention, describing the protests as “rudderless” and capable of creating unnecessary tension in the state.

According to him, while peaceful solidarity marches could be organised to sympathise with the victims of the Oyo abductions, the current protests lacked structure and risked being hijacked by miscreants.

He further argued that continued demonstrations could disrupt ongoing efforts by security agencies to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers, adding that such actions might distract authorities from delicate rescue operations.

The student leader also claimed that sustained protests could embolden criminal elements by creating the impression of rising disorder, warning that such developments would only aggravate the security situation.

Adekunle, however, commended the Ogun State Government and security agencies for what he described as 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.

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 mobilised for disruptive protests, while calling for sustained collaboration between government and security agencies to secure the release of the victims.