Ahead of the forthcoming National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) pre-convention scheduled for Gombe State, an alleged endorsement of a particular candidate by the son of President Bola Tinubu has sparked a row within the association.

In separate reactions to the alleged endorsement of a given candidate for the Senate President, two concerned groups have argued for and against the purported meddling by Seyi Tinubu into the affairs of NANS.

Some concerned southwest members of NANS; Awoyinfa Opeoluwa (FUTA), Olalere Adetunji Benedict from Federal Cooperative College Eleyele Ibadan, Oyo State, Ekundina Segun from Sikuru Adetona College of Education, Science and Technology, Omu-Ijebu, Ogun State and Henry Okunomo (AAUAA), in a statement, objected to the alleged endorsement by Seyi Tinubu, saying it is capable of causing disaffection among members and youths in Nigeria.

The concerned members stated, “…Hence, we believe that it is inconsiderate for Seyi Tinubu to project the aspiration of an individual as the Senate President of NANS.

“Instead of the above, we respectfully appeal to Seyi Tinubu not to polarise the student body which may result in compounding issues for this administration which his purported endorsement of a particular candidate could cause. We believe that his influence should be used to foster a level playing ground where every aspirant has an equal opportunity to succeed.

“This is very important because each of us contesting forms an integral part of the broad political structure that contributed to the success of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ambition.”

The aggrieved members said their followers worked assiduously to the success of President Tinubu’s victory at the polls and cautioned Seyi Tinubu against meddling in NANS affairs.

“We believe that Seyi Tinubu understands the importance of maintaining unity and equality amongst all aspirants. We are also confident that he will consider our concerns and act in a manner that supports the democratic ideals we all hold dear,” the concerned members added.

On the contrary, a member of the association that commended Seyi Tinubu’s alleged endorsement and interest in the affairs of NANS,

Comrade Oladoja Olushola, (aka Ladoja), stated that the development would be positive for the umbrella body of Nigerian students in general.

Olushola in a statement titled: “Watch The Rhetoric: Endorsement Of Candidates Is A Function Of True Allegiance And Patriotism” read in parts,

” Seyi Tinubu’s endorsement or affiliation with NANS should also be considered a critical avenue to strengthen and extend connections with political and social actors who can increase opportunities for employment for many Nigerian students.

“I agree that many may disagree with this justification, nevertheless, I would like to educate that even within professional circles, the creation and effective use of networks or professional connections are often central to creating opportunities for people.

‘Therefore, we cannot overrule the value that the President’s son brings to us as an organization. Besides, the forging of strategic partnerships between Seyi Tinubu and NANS represents a remarkable step that NANS could leverage to present and enact legislation and policies that would support higher education in Nigeria.”

Olushola added,” Distinguished students and fellow Nigerian youths, it is important that we do not spill bad blood or polarize NANS over the endorsement made by Mr Seyi Tinubu. Instead, let candidates continue to engage with convincing campaigns to earn them the trust and confidence of Nigerian students.” (Daily Independent)

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