The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has issued a three-day ultimatum to President Bola Tinubu’s administration to disclose the nation’s true economic situation, particularly in light of recent fuel price hikes......See Full Story>>.....See Full Story>>
NANS Universal President, Comr. Lucky Emonefe, on Wednesday, expressed concern over the economic hardships facing Nigerian students and their families.
While debunking rumours of a planned nationwide protest by students, Omonefe called for urgent government action to address the current economic challenges.
“As Nigerian Students, we are at the receiving end of these harsh economic realities. Whatever affects our parents automatically affects us, making it difficult for us to focus on our studies,” Emonefe stated.
“The high cost of living, transportation, and education is a triple burden we cannot bear alone,” he added.
On Tuesday, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) announced an increase in the pump price of petrol from N568 to between N855 and N897.
This came after the national oil company said it was owing its suppliers more than $6bn in debt.
Amid this, reports emerged Wednesday that the students association was planning a nationwide protest against the hike.
However, NANs denied the rumours, describing them as baseless and orchestrated by impersonators.
Per Emonefe, the association is committed to dialogue over protests to avoid disrupting the academic calendar of students.
He further stressed the severe impact of fuel price increases on the average Nigerian, noting that “The constant increase in fuel prices has devastating effects on the economy, with the average Nigerian spending over 30% of their income on fuel. This is unacceptable, especially considering the current economic climate.”
NANS called for accountability from various sectors of the government. “We demand that the Federal Government and relevant stakeholders provide clear explanations for these price hikes and justify why the masses are not considered before making such decisions.
“The Federal Government sets a selling price, but fuel stations sell at exorbitant rates, making life difficult for the common man. This is unacceptable and must be addressed,” the statement read.
The student body also raised concerns about forex management, demanding explanations for “the constant fluctuations in exchange rates, which contribute to fuel price increases.”
The association added, “We urge the Federal Government to take immediate action to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.”