The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has advised against calls for statewide strikes and mass protests over the abduction of teachers and pupils in Oyo State, warning that such actions could further complicate the security situation in the country.
The student body described the incident as distressing and called on Nigerians to focus on efforts aimed at ensuring the safe rescue and return of the abducted victims, rather than shutting down economic and social activities through protests or industrial actions.
In a statement by its National President, Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, NANS acknowledged that the right to peaceful protest is guaranteed under the Constitution, but stressed that such rights must be exercised with caution, particularly during periods of heightened security tension.
The association warned that strikes and mass shutdowns could unintentionally play into the hands of those responsible for the abductions by creating fear, disruption, and instability in affected communities.
It further called for national unity and collective responsibility in tackling insecurity, urging citizens, communities, and government authorities to work in synergy to defeat terrorism and related crimes.
NANS also appealed for continued support for security agencies currently engaged in efforts to locate and rescue the abducted pupils and teachers.
The group expressed optimism that the victims would be rescued safely and reunited with their families.
