Don’t close schools for polls, NANS urges govt

THE National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has urged the Federal Government not to shut down tertiary institutions in the country, so that students can participate fully in the general elections.

   NANS President, Tijani Usman made the appeal at a press conference in Abuja at the weekend while speaking on the state of the nation, saying if schools are open it would allow students to vote where they registered.

   Usman stated that the association had watched the political development in the country with keen interest, stressing that it therefore supported the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to shift the polls in order to ensure the conduct of an acceptable polls.

   His words: “We urge the government to ensure that our schools are not shut down to ensure that students are not disenfranchised because we believe that Nigerian students have the mandate to choose their leaders.”

   He added that the reasons given for adjusting the electoral timetable were genuine, as it would allow massive military operations in the north east and ensure effective distribution of the Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), which had experienced poor distribution in some parts of the country.

   “NANS has watched the political development in the state with keen interest. We are particularly concerned with the electoral process. And so far, all we can say is so good. Very importantly, we are happy that the dates for the general elections were shifted.

    “The major reason adduced by INEC for adjusting the electoral time table is the need to allow for the massive military operation commencing in the North East. Also, the serious concern about the poor distribution of the PVCs in some parts of the country has also been raised and argued by different sections of the polity and the electorate.”

   He revealed that only fifty percent of students all over the country have collected their permanent voters’ card.

   He also admonished Nigerians to encourage the military in the fight against insurgency.

   “As Nigerians, we all must support our military. This is not the time for undue criticism and unnecessary politicking. No amount of politics should weigh down or distract our military from performing their patriotic duties.”