The National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, has dissociated itself from the Take It Back, TIB, Movement led by activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, accusing the group of pursuing political objectives under the guise of activism.
NANS said it would not be part of any protest activities organised by the movement, maintaining that its approach to advocacy differs from that of the group.
In a statement issued in Abuja, NANS President, Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, alleged that the Take It Back Movement had increasingly blurred the lines between activism, journalism and partisan politics, raising concerns about its true intentions.
According to him, the movement’s activities suggest the pursuit of political interests rather than genuine advocacy on issues affecting Nigerians.
Akinteye also dismissed reports questioning his status as a student, describing such claims as false and misleading.
The NANS president stated that he remained a bonafide student of Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, adding that the publication behind the report failed to adhere to basic journalistic standards by not verifying the facts before publication.
He criticized the report and urged media organisations to uphold professionalism by ensuring accuracy and fairness in their reporting.
The student leader further alleged that the Take It Back Movement is increasingly being perceived as a political platform rather than an independent advocacy group.
He claimed that some individuals had linked the movement to organisations such as the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, and the Eastern Security Network,ESN, although he did not provide evidence to support the allegation.
Speaking on the recent abduction of students and teachers in parts of the country, Akinteye said NANS would not collaborate with Sowore or the Take It Back Movement in any protest concerning the incident.
He, however, commended organised labour and education stakeholders, including the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and the Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, for their efforts in advocating for victims of kidnappings and insecurity.
According to him, NANS remains committed to demanding the safe return of abducted students and holding authorities accountable for the protection of educational institutions across the country.
Akinteye stressed that while the association would continue to champion the interests of Nigerian students, it would do so through peaceful and lawful means.
He reiterated NANS’ commitment to national peace and stability, insisting that the association would not support actions capable of promoting violence or public disorder.
