By John Ogunsemore
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) said the continuous targeting of defenceless citizens is a gross violation of the nation’s collective humanity and a direct challenge to the authority of the Nigerian state.
President of the body, Comrade Olushola Oladoja stated this in a Monday statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Michael Oyewole.
Ladoja, who was reacting to the recent spate of brutal killings in Benue, said NANS is deeply saddened and outraged by the recurring loss of innocent lives to the nefarious activities of non-state actors across Nigeria.
According to the NANS President, the recent spate of violent attacks, resulting in the tragic loss of lives and destruction of property, is a stark reminder of the worsening state of insecurity in nation.
“This is utterly unacceptable and must not be allowed to continue unchecked,” he stated.
He emphasised that these heinous acts of violence perpetrated by bandits, insurgents, and other criminal elements who have no regard for the sanctity of human life must be checked.
He said, “The continuous targeting of defenceless citizens, including students, women, and children, is a gross violation of our collective humanity and a direct challenge to the authority of the Nigerian state.
“NANS calls on the Federal Government of Nigeria, state governments, and all relevant security agencies to rise to their constitutional responsibility of protecting lives and property.
“The recurring failure to prevent these attacks or bring perpetrators to justice is an indictment of the current security architecture.
“We demand immediate and decisive action to address this growing menace.”
The NANS President called on the Federal Government to strengthen security operations and collaborate with state governments to ensure perpetrators of these dastardly acts are swiftly apprehended, prosecuted, and brought to justice to serve as a deterrent to others.
Calling for support for victims, Ladoja said, “Governments at all levels must provide immediate relief, medical care, and rehabilitation for victims and affected communities to alleviate their suffering.”
He reiterated that the safety of Nigerian students and citizens is non-negotiable.
“We cannot continue to live in fear, with our campuses, communities, and highways turned into slaughter grounds.
“NANS stands in solidarity with the families of the victims and calls on all stakeholders to prioritise the security of lives and property above all else,” he added.
Daily Sun recalls that the national student body on June 2 issued a statement commiserating with the government and people of Benue over the “senseless loss of lives” in another incident in the state.
The body also demanded that the entire national security architecture be relocated to the state to ensure the safety and security of the people.