Factional Dispute Emerges with Three Claiming Presidency in NANS Election

Tensions escalate as the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) concludes its National convention in Abuja, with three candidates now asserting their presidency. Lucky Emonefe, Pedro Chibuzo, and Rioborue Jude Deniran have each been declared factional presidents by their respective supporters, leading to a contentious situation within the student union.

Controversies surrounding the election, which commenced on Monday, November 27, 2023, reached a pinnacle as the groups convened separate press conferences. Lucky Emonefe, asserting his legitimacy as NANS president, appealed to President Bola Tinubu for the approval of a national annual bursary of 200,000 for all Nigerian students, regardless of their creed or tribe. Emonefe positioned this fund as a palliative measure to alleviate the economic strains resulting from certain reforms within President Tinubu’s administration.

In a parallel narrative, Rioborue Jude Deniran, claiming the title of President-Elect of NANS, urged the Department of State Security to provide a detailed report on the 2023 elective convention. Deniran stressed the global interest in understanding the intricacies of the election process.

Adding another layer to the unfolding situation, Pedro Chibuzo emphasized the need for the present administration to ensure proper coordination of the student loan scheme. Chibuzo insisted on aligning efforts to achieve the intended purpose of the student loan system.

As the student union grapples with this unprecedented dispute, the NANS election aftermath continues to unfold, leaving many within and beyond the student community eager for resolution and clarity on the legitimate leadership of the association.