NANS Declares Total Shutdown of Osun Campuses Over Election Violence

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Southwest Zone D, has announced a total and peaceful shutdown of academic activities across tertiary institutions in Osun State, citing an alarming rise in political violence ahead of the state's governorship election.

In a press statement issued by the zonal leadership, NANS said reports of gunshots near communities surrounding some institutions, particularly at night, had heightened fear among students living both on and off campus. The association noted that no comprehensive, publicly communicated security plan had been put in place to protect campuses, host communities, or transport routes during the election period.

"NO SECURITY, NO ACADEMIC ACTIVITIES," the statement declared, directing all Joint Campus Council officials, Students' Union Governments, and students across the state to prepare for full compliance and to be ready to return home until stability is restored.

NANS also raised concerns about the mobilisation of students for voter-related activities by political actors, warning students against surrendering personal information or boarding unbranded vehicles operated by unidentified persons.

The association stressed the shutdown was not politically sponsored and was not directed at any party or candidate, describing it instead as a protective measure. It called on the Osun State Governor, security agencies, and institutional heads to urgently provide credible security guarantees and engage recognised student leadership.

The statement was signed by Comr. Adeyemo Josiah Kayode (Coordinator), Com. Ojetola Babatunde Yussuf (Secretary General), and Comrade Tope Olugbemi (Public Relations Officer), on behalf of NANS Southwest Zone D.