The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Joint Campus Committee in Ogun State, has elected a new set of leaders, with a pledge to tackle injustice and strengthen student representation across tertiary institutions in the state.
The newly elected chairman, Olabode Faruq, emerged at the end of a convention held on Saturday, securing seven votes out of 13 cast by delegates.
Addressing journalists on Sunday, Faruq described his victory as a collective mandate, promising to run an inclusive administration anchored on unity, accountability and the protection of students’ rights.
“This victory is not mine alone; it is a collective mandate for progress, unity, and purposeful representation. Under my watch, no student will be subjected to injustice, no matter how small. We will stand firm, speak boldly, and act decisively in defence of student rights and dignity,” he said.
The convention drew participants from 13 accredited tertiary institutions in the state, with stakeholders commending the process as transparent and credible.
Faruq lauded the NANS National President, Olushola Oladoja, and the South-West Zonal Coordinator, Adeyemo Kayode, for their commitment to democratic ideals within the student movement.
He also praised the Independent Convention Planning Committee, led by Akinbodunse Sileola Praise, for conducting what he described as a credible electoral process.
The new leadership further acknowledged the role of the Ogun State Government in providing an enabling environment for youth engagement.
However, the transition was marred by controversy following an alleged post-election attack on the Special Assistant to the Governor on Students’ Matters, Adeyemi Azeez Amoo.
Condemning the incident, Faruq described it as unacceptable and vowed that the association would not tolerate violence.
“It is with a deep sense of concern that I address the unfortunate incident involving an attack on Comrade Adeyemi Azeez. On behalf of the entire NANS Ogun JCC leadership, I extend sincere sympathy and strongly condemn this act of violence and lawlessness. Such behaviour has no place in our movement,” he said.
He disclosed plans to visit the victim, while also calling for a thorough investigation into allegations of unprofessional conduct by some security personnel during the event.
Faruq urged stakeholders, including student leaders, institutional authorities and government partners, to prioritise collaboration in addressing challenges confronting students.
“The challenges before us demand more than participation; they require unity of purpose and deliberate action. My administration is committed to an inclusive, transparent and student-centred leadership model,” he added.
In his remarks, Kayode described Faruq’s emergence as a reflection of the confidence reposed in him by student leaders across the state, expressing optimism that the new administration would strengthen advocacy and unity within the student community.
He also assured the new leadership of the support of the South-West zone in advancing the welfare and interests of students.
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