NANS Dismisses Allegations Over President’s Student Status
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has rejected claims questioning the student status of its president, Comrade Akinteye Babatunde Afeez.
In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, Akinteye described a report published by SaharaReporters as inaccurate and misleading. He said the publication attempted to spread false information and damage his reputation.
The NANS president maintained that he is a legitimate student of Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology.
He also questioned the credibility of the report, stressing that professional media organizations should verify facts before publication.
Student Body Criticizes Sowore and Take It Back Movement
Akinteye directed strong criticism at activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore and the Take It Back (TIB) Movement.
He argued that Sowore’s involvement in activism, journalism and politics has raised concerns about neutrality and ethical standards.
According to him, many observers now view the movement as a politically motivated platform rather than an independent advocacy group.
Concerns Raised Over Political Affiliations
The NANS president claimed that the activities of the movement continue to attract public scrutiny because of its perceived political connections.
He further alleged that some individuals have expressed concerns over what they see as sympathies toward activities associated with IPOB and the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
Akinteye said these concerns have contributed to questions surrounding the movement’s objectives and public image.
NANS Distances Itself From Ongoing Protests
The student leader made it clear that NANS would not join the Take It Back Movement in its current advocacy campaigns.
He emphasized that the association would continue to pursue its objectives independently, especially on issues involving kidnapped students and teachers.
While acknowledging the efforts of labour organizations, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), he said those groups operate differently from the activist movement.
Questions Over Protest Leadership
Akinteye claimed that several individuals leading recent protests are state chairmen of the African Action Congress (AAC).
He argued that such involvement raises legitimate concerns about the movement’s political interests.
The NANS president challenged Sowore and his supporters to openly identify as a political organization if they intend to engage in partisan activities.
Commitment to Rescue of Abducted Students
Despite the disagreement, Akinteye reaffirmed NANS’ commitment to securing the release of abducted students and teachers across the country.
He said the association would continue to demand accountability from the government until all victims regain their freedom.
“We will continue to defend the mandate of Nigerian students and resist any call for anarchy or destruction in the country,” he stated.
Growing Rift Between Student Body and Activist Group
The latest exchange highlights increasing tensions between NANS and the Take It Back Movement.
The disagreement has expanded beyond advocacy efforts and now centers on issues of credibility, political influence and public trust.
