Newly Elected NANS Leaders Accuse Seyi Tinubu of Election Interference and Violence Using DSS Operatives

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) witnessed a tumultuous national convention, culminating in the election of Pedro Obi as President. The newly elected leadership has pointed fingers at Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, alleging interference and orchestrating violence during the convention.

Pedro Obi, a Ph.D. student from Delta State University, secured victory with 212 votes, defeating Lucky Emonefe, Seyi Tinubu's preferred candidate, who garnered 83 votes. The election, held at the old parade ground in Abuja, was marred by heavy shootings and clashes between opposing factions.

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In a statement released on Saturday night, President Pedro Obi accused Seyi Tinubu of abusing his privilege by deploying Department of State Services (DSS) operatives to disrupt the convention and influence the election outcome.

The statement reads, "Certain individuals masquerading as government agents picked unnecessary interest in our organization, attempting to forcefully impose unpopular leaders against popular choices of the students. The DSS was excessively deployed, working for Mr. Seyi Tinubu to determine the outcome, unleashing mayhem on comrades and genuine student leaders who did not align with their ungodly interest."

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Obi affirmed the resilience of student leaders against attempts to hijack the organization's leadership. He emphasized the commitment of the new administration to the three Cs - Capacity, Content, and Competence - pledging to serve and protect the interests of Nigerian students.

The statement further called on the public to support the newly elected NANS President and his executives in their mission to be the voice of the voiceless and defend the interests of Nigerian students.

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There were heavy shootings at the convention venue, alleging that Seyi Tinubu released millions for security operatives and mobilized cultists to compromise the convention and ensure the victory of his preferred candidate. Opposition to the candidature of Lucky Emonefe, a 48-year-old, had been previously reported.

As the controversy unfolds, the NANS leadership transition raises concerns about external interference in student politics and the need for a fair and transparent electoral process within the association.