‘Officially Useless’ Remarks: Retract and Apologize or Risk Our Wrath – NANS Tells Sowore

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has flayed the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) in the February 25, 2023 presidential election, Omoyele Sowore, for describing the student body as “officially useless.”

The NANS Senate President, Comr. Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, in a statement on Sunday demanded immediate retraction of the “disparaging remark” and an apology.

While resolutely rejecting such “derogatory remarks,” the apex students body said Sowore risked the wrath of students, if he failed to retract.

The statement reads in part: ”It is disheartening to see a former student leader, who once understood the struggles and aspirations of Nigerian students, make such disparaging comments about an organisation that has been at the forefront of fighting for their rights. Sowore’s words not only undermine the hard work and dedication of NANS but also disregard the significant impact the organisation has had on the lives of students across the country.

“As a former student leader himself, Sowore should understand the power of unity and collective action among Nigerian students. Failure to retract his statement will not be taken lightly, and he will face the full wrath of Nigerian students who are prepared to defend the integrity of NANS and the rights of all students.

“As stakeholders in the educational sector, we vehemently reject such derogatory remarks aimed at an organisation that has tirelessly advocated for their rights and welfare. We have been instrumental in addressing issues such as inadequate funding for education, poor infrastructure in schools, and the overall improvement of the educational system in Nigeria.

“Sowore should retract his statement and offer a public apology to NANS and the entire student body. Sowore should understand the power of unity and collective action among Nigerian students. Failure to retract his statement will not be taken lightly, and he will face the full wrath of Nigerian students who are prepared to defend the integrity of NANS and the rights of all students.

“It is time for him to recognise the importance of constructive dialogue and collaboration in addressing the challenges facing the Nigerian educational system. Rather than resorting to divisive rhetoric, we call on him to join hands with NANS and other stakeholders to work towards sustainable solutions that will benefit all Nigerian students.”