As rumors circulate that the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) is planning to shut down major cities in the country to protest fuel pump price hikes, the student association has issued a statement clarifying that these reports are entirely baseless.

In a statement released on Wednesday, NANS Senate President Comrade Akinteye Babatunde Afeez dismissed claims that the group is planning a massive shutdown of cities on September 15, 2024, citing baseless misinformation that does not reflect the organization’s position or intentions.

The statement emphasized that NANS is committed to peaceful advocacy and constructive engagement with relevant stakeholders, adding that any actions that could lead to civil unrest or disruption of public order are not supported by the organization. The student body urged security agencies to investigate the origin of the misinformation and take decisive action to apprehend individuals or groups attempting to use the name of NANS to incite unrest.

The leadership of NANS has appealed to the public, the media, and all stakeholders to disregard false reports and emphasize that the use of their name to propagate dangerous and unfounded claims is not only a threat to national security but also a grave disservice to the millions of students who genuinely seek positive change through legitimate means.

It’s essential to acknowledge that any attempts to distort the facts or manipulate the narrative to achieve personal gains can lead to chaos and destruction. In this case, the individuals or groups responsible for spreading misinformation are clearly trying to destabilize the country and create unnecessary tension among citizens.

As we navigate these challenging times, it’s crucial to collectively ensure the integrity of democratic processes and the rule of law are upheld. This requires collaboration among stakeholders to identify and hold accountable those responsible for spreading falsehood, and to promote peaceful coexistence.

In conclusion, the leadership of NANS has taken a decisive stand against the baseless reports, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to peaceful advocacy and constructive engagement. It’s essential for citizens, the media, and security agencies to work together to identify and address misinformation, and to promote unity and stability in the face of challenges.