Dennis Erezi
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has condemned the recent spike in the killing of students in some of Nigeria’s tertiary institutions.
The umbrella body of Nigerian students called for immediate action and investigation by security agencies to bring the culprits to book.
NANS President Lucky Emonefe in a statement listed the tertiary institutions where students have lost their lives in questionable circumstances in recent times.
They include Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH), Lokoja, Kogi State; Ebonyi State University as well as Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo State.
Emonefe noted that while these tragic events pose serious threats to education, he expressed worry that they would instill fear in students who are eager to pursue their studies for the sole purpose of developing society.
He said: “The unfortunate murders of James Michael Anajuwe and Musa Hussein, both students of Confluence University of Science and Technology (CUSTECH) in Lokoja, Kogi State, are tragic events that pose a threat to education.
“Another distressing incident is the death of Miss Favour Ugwuka, a final year student of Ebonyi State University, who reportedly committed suicide on Wednesday, 22nd May due to pressure from a lecturer who repeatedly failed her in his course.
“While we strongly believe that suicide is not a solution to any problem, we condemn the actions of the lecturer that led to the death of Miss Favour. We call for an immediate investigation into the matter, as we believe it will serve as a deterrent to others with similar intentions.
“We also demand justice for the soul of a student from Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo, identified as Alex, who was unjustly killed on Saturday, May 25th by his fellow students over an allegation of phone theft.
“It is crucial for authorities to fulfill their constitutional duties of ensuring the safety and security of students, both on and off campus. The recent incidents have exposed significant security gaps that must be addressed urgently.”
He assured that NANS under his leadership will continue to advocate for justice for the innocent students who have lost their lives.
