Petrol price hike: ‘We are capable of holding govt to ransom’ NANS insists on nationwide protest

NANS Senate President, Henry Okuomo, made this clear today during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily.

He emphasized that the union is committed to holding the government accountable, expressing dissatisfaction with the ongoing economic hardships in the country.

“We are not issuing threats of a strike—this is what we are set to do because of the current state of the country. Nigerians are enduring significant hardship, and now, with the increase in fuel prices, it has further affected us as students. As student leaders, we are left with no choice but to stand up for the people,” Okuomo stated.

He added, “With over 40 million Nigerian students, we represent a major demographic in the country. It is crucial that we raise our voices now to alleviate the undue burden the government has placed on the people.

“On the 15th of this month, we are moving forward with our plans. There will be no turning back. We will take to the streets to demand not only a reduction in fuel prices but also the reversal of other policies contributing to the nation’s suffering.”

Okuomo also noted that NANS had previously called for a reduction in petrol prices and the removal of Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPCL).

However, these statements follow a denial by Babatunde Akinteye, a factional Senate President of NANS, who claimed the association was not organizing any protest regarding the petrol price increase. Akinteye urged security agencies to investigate the source of what he described as misinformation.

He said, “We strongly urge the public, media, and stakeholders to dismiss these false reports. The individuals behind these rumors are faceless and aim to exploit the NANS name for malicious purposes, intending to create unnecessary tension in the country. We categorically distance ourselves from any such plans.”

Akinteye called on security agencies to investigate and hold accountable those responsible for spreading falsehoods, stressing that using NANS’ name to incite unrest is a threat to national security and undermines the legitimate efforts of the student body.

“NANS is committed to advocating for the rights and welfare of Nigerian students through peaceful, lawful, and constructive means. We stand for peace, progress, and the unity of the nation,” Akinteye concluded.