The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Southwest Zone D, has commended the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 11 Headquarters, Osogbo, AIG Bassey S. Ewah, for his prompt intervention following the alleged assault and arrest of students of the Federal Polytechnic, Ede.

The commendation came in a statement issued on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, in which the association also appealed to students and members of the public to remain calm as investigations into the incident commence.

NANS Southwest disclosed that its engagement with the leadership of Zone 11 had yielded assurances that the affected students would receive fair treatment and that any student found to have been wrongfully arrested would be released immediately.

The association further stated that the officers allegedly involved had been identified and that a thorough investigation into their conduct was already underway.

The development follows an earlier intervention by the student body after a viral video emerged showing the alleged assault and arrest of students of the institution, raising concerns about their safety and whereabouts.

Welcoming the position of the Zone 11 Police Headquarters that the Nigeria Police Force does not condone brutality, intimidation or abuse of power, NANS Southwest described the response as a reassuring demonstration of accountability.

It noted that AIG Ewah’s declaration that no officer is above the law and that anyone found culpable would face appropriate disciplinary measures was consistent with the principles of professional policing.

The association, however, clarified that its initial statement was not a personal attack on the AIG or a condemnation of his leadership. It explained that the statement was issued out of concern for the fundamental rights, safety and dignity of the affected students, whose whereabouts and condition had not been formally established at the time.

While commending the AIG’s response, NANS Southwest urged the Zone 11 leadership to ensure that the investigation remains transparent, with all seized devices and recordings properly preserved. It also called for appropriate disciplinary measures if the allegations against the officers are substantiated.

The association appealed to students of the Federal Polytechnic, Ede, student leaders across Osun State and the general public to avoid actions capable of disrupting public peace while the intervention and release process are being implemented.

It also used the opportunity to advise students on appropriate conduct during encounters with law enforcement officers, warning against physical confrontation or violent resistance, particularly when dealing with armed personnel.

Students were advised to remain calm, comply with lawful instructions and seek clarification on the reason for any arrest, the identity of the officers involved and the police station to which they are being taken. The association further encouraged them to notify their families, legal representatives and recognised student leaders without delay.

NANS Southwest maintained that students have the right to seek legal representation before making or signing statements, stressing that cooperation with law enforcement authorities does not amount to a waiver of their constitutional rights.

It equally urged police officers to exercise restraint and professionalism, adding that requests for identification and legal representation should not automatically be interpreted as obstruction of police duties.

The association’s Coordinator, Comrade Adeyemo Josiah Kayode (BILLIONCODES), reaffirmed that NANS Southwest would continue to monitor the matter and engage the relevant authorities until the affected students are safely released and the investigation concluded.

He thanked AIG Ewah for his accessibility and prompt response, while urging all parties to allow due process, justice and accountability to prevail.