NANS insists rally is about drug abuse, not #FreeNnamdiKanu

The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has dismissed reports suggesting that it is backing the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest being organised by the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore.

A statement purportedly from NANS, which surfaced last week, claimed that the student union body had resolved to support the protest.

According to the statement, the decision was reached at a recent national executive meeting of NANS, which reaffirmed the association’s “commitment to peaceful advocacy for justice and democratic accountability.”

However, addressing the media in Abuja, NANS President, Comrade Olushola Oladoja, dismissed the report as fabricated, aimed at tarnishing the reputation of the student body and portraying it as irresponsible.

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“As a responsible students’ body, NANS recognizes that it would be inappropriate and unlawful to take a partisan stance or mobilize action on a case already before the judiciary,” he said.

“We, therefore, disassociate ourselves from any group or individuals linking the Association or its leadership to any planned protest on Nnamdi Kanu’s trial,” Oladoja emphasised.

“We wish to state unequivocally that NANS has not declared, endorsed, or participated in any protest whatsoever relating to the ongoing case of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. The leadership of NANS has not taken any official position on the matter, as we fully understand that it remains a legal issue pending before a competent court of law.”

The NANS leader explained that the only activity officially scheduled by NANS for October 20, 2025, is a Peaceful Awareness Rally Against Illicit Drug Use and Abuse.

“Our mission on October 20 is simple – to save lives and raise awareness against drug abuse, not to engage in political agitation,” he stressed.

“This event is part of our nationwide campaign to sensitize Nigerian youths, especially students, on the dangers of drug abuse and to promote a culture of sound mental health, discipline, and productivity among the young population.”

Oladoja added, “NANS is focused on constructive, peaceful, and development-oriented engagements that will secure a better future for Nigerian students and the nation at large. We urge the general public, the media, and security agencies to disregard any publication or post claiming otherwise. NANS remains committed to constructive engagements, peaceful advocacy, and national development initiatives that align with the collective progress of Nigerian students and the country at large.”