The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has accused the security aides of Ondo State Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu of assaulting students of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA). The students were allegedly attacked while protesting the government’s neglect of the university’s infrastructure and the poor state of roads leading to the campus.
According to NANS, the incident occurred on [Date] when a group of AAUA students embarked on a peaceful protest to draw attention to the deplorable state of the university’s facilities and the lack of basic amenities. The students claimed that their protest was peaceful and that they did not pose any threat to the governor or his entourage.
Allegations of Assault and Gunfire
However, NANS alleged that the governor’s security aides responded to the protest with excessive force. The students claimed that the security personnel assaulted them, fired gunshots into the air, and threatened to use live ammunition.
The student body provided graphic details of the alleged assault, including reports of students being beaten, kicked, and injured. They also claimed that the security personnel fired several rounds of ammunition into the air, creating a chaotic and dangerous situation.
Student Injuries and Trauma
NANS expressed deep concern about the injuries sustained by the students during the attack. They reported that several students required medical attention and that some had suffered psychological trauma.
The student body also criticized the government’s response to the incident, accusing them of trying to cover up the assault. They alleged that the government had pressured the university authorities to remain silent and had threatened to withdraw funding if the incident was made public.
Demand for Justice and Apology
In response to the assault, NANS has demanded that the Ondo State government take immediate action to address the situation. The student body has issued the following demands:
- Unconditional apology: The governor should issue an unconditional apology to the affected students and their families.
- Justice for victims: The government should investigate the incident and bring the perpetrators to justice.
- Compensation for victims: The government should provide adequate compensation to the students who were injured or traumatized during the attack.
- Improved infrastructure: The government should allocate sufficient funds to improve the infrastructure of Adekunle Ajasin University and address the concerns of the students.
Public Outrage and Solidarity
The NANS allegations have sparked widespread outrage and solidarity among Nigerian students and civil society organizations. Many have condemned the assault and called for the government to take immediate action.
Social media has been flooded with messages of support for the AAUA students and condemnation of the government’s actions. The incident has also raised concerns about the growing culture of impunity among security forces in Nigeria.
Government’s Response
The Ondo State government has not yet issued a statement in response to the NANS allegations. It remains to be seen whether the government will investigate the incident and take steps to address the concerns of the students.
The outcome of this standoff could have significant implications for the future of higher education in Nigeria. If the government fails to address the concerns of the students, it could lead to further protests and unrest.
In conclusion, the allegations of assault against AAUA students by Governor Aiyedatiwa’s security aides are a serious matter with far-reaching implications. The incident has exposed the growing culture of impunity among security forces in Nigeria and has raised concerns about the government’s commitment to protecting the rights of students. It remains to be seen whether the government will take decisive action to address the situation and restore trust in the university system.
