By John Ogunsemore
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Southwest Zone D, has cautioned against reckless tagging of the association in the wake of recent arrest by the Osun State Police Command of four individuals reportedly found in possession of firearms, cutlasses, and charms while using a vehicle bearing a NANS plate number.
This is contained in a Sunday statement jointly signed by Zonal Coordinator, Comrade Taiwo Owolewa and General Secretary, Comrade Olutunde Oluwole and sent to Daily Sun.
The zonal leadership said it is unjustifiable to use an isolated incident to tarnish the association’s image.
The statement reads, “Let’s be clear: we are not here to deny the obvious. It is possible that one or more of the individuals involved may be students or members of our association. But here is the truth: no organisation, not even the Nigeria Police Force, is free from the presence of bad eggs.
“Just like one rogue officer does not represent the entire police force, one misled student does not reflect the ideals and values of NANS.
“In fact, right here in Osogbo, a disturbing incident happened not long ago, where a police officer hijacked a vehicle from one of our members and drove off.
“Yet, despite the gravity of that event, we did not rush to social media to tarnish the image of the police. We did not paint the entire force as corrupt. Why? Because we understand the importance of separating individuals’ actions from institutional identity.”
The NANS zonal leadership said it expected the same level of maturity, professionalism, and balance from the police when reporting matters concerning the association.
“Recklessly tagging suspects as NANS members without proper verification is not only irresponsible, it is defamatory and dangerous.
“Furthermore, we consider the public posting and circulation of images showing a vehicle with a NANS-branded plate number, without context or investigation, as nothing short of a showoff and a deliberate attempt to defame our organisation.
“This form of media theatrics is unacceptable. The Zonal Leadership of NANS Zone D will not tolerate this from the Osun State Police Command,” the statement reads in part.
The zonal leadership body reminded the police that it could also effectively use the social media and we will not hesitate to defend the integrity of its organisation with every means at its disposal.
It stated, “Let it be known: NANS does not condone crime, cultism, or any form of violence. We are a body of law-abiding, progressive students committed to nation-building, education reform, and the protection of students’ rights across Nigeria.
“Our symbols, names, and identity stand for leadership and learning, not lawlessness.
“We believe strongly in collaboration with the Nigeria Police to ensure a safer society for all.
“We are open to working with the authorities to get to the bottom of this matter.
“But we will not sit back and watch while the name of the largest student body in Africa is carelessly dragged in the mud.
“To the police, the press, and the public: Investigate thoroughly. Speak responsibly. Act fairly. That is all we ask.”