This was contained in a statement made available to journalists in Ibadan, and signed by Southwest Coordinator of NANS, John Alao; the zone’s Secretary-General, Sanni Sulaimon Olamide; and the Public Relations Officer, Oluwadamilola Bamigb
NANS said the recent expulsion of students over a peaceful protest of May 9, 2024, was a flagrant violation of the fundamental rights of the students involved. The student body said the students were exercising their right to protest against legitimate concerns, and ”their expulsion without due process or fair hearing is a severe breach of justice and equity”.
They emphasised that the five-day ultimatum, starting from August 5 to 9, 2024 Maims to correct this gross injustice, saying failure to do so would lead to the shutting down of the institution on Monday August 12, 2024.
The student leaders said: ‘’The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Southwest is issuing a stern ultimatum to the Federal Government regarding the unlawful expulsion of students from Federal Polytechnic, Ede. We demand the immediate removal of the current Rector, Dr. Sani Man Yahaya, who has orchestrated these unjust actions against our members. This five-day ultimatum, starting from today 5th August 20th – 9th August2024 Monday-Friday, aims to correct this gross injustice, failing which we will mobilize to shut down the institution on Monday August 12, 2024.
‘’The recent expulsions, following the peaceful protest of May 9, 2024, represent a flagrant violation of the fundamental rights of the students involved. These students were exercising their right to protest against legitimate concerns, and their expulsion without due process or fair hearing is a severe breach of justice and equity. It is unacceptable that students are being punished for their involvement in peaceful demonstrations, a cornerstone of democratic expression and civic engagement.
‘’We call on the Federal Government to act swiftly and decisively. The removal of Dr. Sani Man Yahaya and the immediate reinstatement of the expelled students are non-negotiable. Failure to meet these demands within the stipulated five days will compel NANS Southwest to take decisive action, including the shutdown of Federal Polytechnic, Ede, starting August 12, 2024.
‘’We urge all stakeholders, including parents, alumni, and civil society organizations, to support this just cause. The integrity of our educational system and the future of our students are at stake. NANS Southwest remains committed to protecting the rights and welfare of Nigerian students and will not relent until justice is served’’.
Reacting, the polytechnic, through its Protocol, Media and Public Relations Officer,
Sola Lawal, said the students were expelled for vandalising of individual and institution’s properties.
The statement read: ‘’You would recall that the management of the Federal Polytechnic, Ede Osun State constituted an investigation committee to unravel the miseries surrounding the Student’s crisis/rampage of Thursday May 9th, 2024 leading to the stoning of people at the senior staff club
‘’The unprovoked attitude led to the vandalisation of individual and institution’s properties. This unwarranted action negates the motto of the great citadel which is “knowledge, skill and character which the institution is known for.
‘’After a painstaking and thorough investigation, the following decisions were arrived at that : 27 Higher National Diploma [HND] 1 and 2 students be expelled, eight HND 2 students be suspended for two academic sessions while two former students union leaders banned from entering the two campuses with immediate effect’’.
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Very good