The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has officially distanced itself from the Take It Back Movement, a group led by activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore. NANS accuses the movement of disguising political ambitions under the cloak of activism.
In a statement released from Abuja, NANS President Akinteye Babatunde Afeez declared that the student body will not participate in any protests organized by the movement. He stressed that NANS’ advocacy methods are fundamentally different from those of the group.
Afeez raised concerns that the Take It Back Movement has muddied the waters between activism, journalism, and partisan politics, casting doubt on its genuine objectives. He asserted that the movement’s actions appear to serve political interests rather than advocating for pressing national issues.
The NANS president also refuted reports questioning his student status, labeling them as false and irresponsible. He affirmed that he is a legitimate student at Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology and criticized the publishing media house for failing to verify facts before going to print.
Afeez urged media organizations to uphold professional standards of accuracy and fairness. He further claimed that the Take It Back Movement is increasingly viewed as a political entity rather than an independent advocacy group.
Without providing evidence, he alleged that some individuals have linked the movement to groups like the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Eastern Security Network (ESN). Regarding the recent abductions of students and teachers, Afeez stated that NANS will not collaborate with Sowore or his movement in any related protests.
However, he commended organized labor and education stakeholders, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), for their advocacy on behalf of kidnap victims. Afeez reaffirmed NANS’ commitment to demanding the safe return of abducted students and holding authorities accountable for protecting educational institutions.
He emphasized that the association will continue to champion student interests through peaceful and lawful means, maintaining a dedication to national peace and stability and opposing any actions that could incite violence or public disorder.