Stakeholders in the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, have reacted to the purported endorsement of one of the aspirants eyeing the post of senate presidency in the forthcoming NANS election.
The stakeholders in a joint release made available to Vreporters and signed by Comrade Awoyinfa Opeoluwa, FUTA; Comrade Olalere Adetunji Benedict, Federal Cooperative College, Eleyele, Ibadan ; Comrade Ekundina Segun, Sikiru Adetona College of Education, Science and Technology, Omu-Ijebu, Ogun State, and their counterpart at Adekunle Ajasin University in Ondo state.
The Joint statement, according to these concerned stakeholders is to address the recent concerns and reactions emanating from the purported endorsement of a certain Senate Presidential aspirant of NANS by Seyi Tinubu.
The statement partly read: “It is important to acknowledge these reactions as they reflect the democratic spirit which underscores our political structure; a spirit that encourages healthy competition and respect for diverging opinions.
“We understand that Seyi Tinubu’s endorsement has sparked a wave of dissatisfaction amongst other aspirants and discerning public in general. We believe that this dissatisfaction stems from an inherent belief in the principle of democracy which underscores the right of each aspirant to be given a level-playing ground to vie for elective positions.
“We must state unequivocally that each one of us, not a particular individual contributed our quota towards ensuring that Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu emerged as the President, Federal Republic of Nigeria. We invested our personal resources into the actualisation of Asiwaju’s ambition. Hence, we believe that it is inconsiderate for Seyi Tinubu to project the aspiration of an individual as the Senate President of NANS.
“Our endorsement and, indeed, support for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu was a reflection of our belief in his ability to provide the required leadership to take Nigeria to greater heights.
“In lieu of the above, we respectfully appeal to Seyi Tinubu not to polarise the students body which will definitely result to compounding issues for this administration which his purported endorsement of a particular candidate could cause. We believe that his influence should be used to foster a level playing ground where every aspirant has an equal opportunity to succeed. This is very important because each of us contesting forms an integral part of the broad political structure that contributed to the success of his father’s Presidential ambition”.
The release stressed that, the strength of a democratic system lies in its inclusivity and the equitable participation of all its actors.
“It is therefore very necessary that Seyi Tinubu acknowledges the aspirations of all NANS Senate Presidential aspirants and supports them without favoring one over the other.
“The endorsement of a single candidate could inadvertently create a sense of alienation amongst other aspirants and their supporters, which could potentially undermine the unity and strength of the broader political structure”.
The stakeholders therefore appeal to Seyi Tinubu to consider the bigger picture and the long-term implications of his actions, as its ripple effect may be self-defeating .
The release further added that, supporting all aspirants equally will be reaffirming his commitment to democratic principles and strengthening the political structure which is vital to his father’s advocacy for equality, justice and fairness in the overall interest of Nigerian students.
The comrades, as stated in the Joint statement believe that Seyi Tinubu understands the importance of maintaining unity and equality amongst all aspirants.
“We are also confident that he will take our concerns into consideration and act in a manner that supports the democratic ideals we all hold dear.
“Democracy is not just about the destination, but the journey. Let us ensure that this journey is fair and inclusive for all aspirants. This way, we can build a stronger and more vibrant political system which will deliver on the promise of a better and more prosperous Nigeria.
The stakeholders reiterate their commitment to supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s led administration and believe that, Seyi Tinubu’s equal support for all NANS Senate President aspirants will go a long way in bolstering the success of this administration, adding that the much anticipated poll should be free, fair for aspirants in the race.
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