The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Joint Campus Council (JCC), Edo State, has scheduled Friday March 23, 2024 for a 10,000 students’ march in Benin City, the Edo State capital.
Chairman of the NANS JCC, Edo State axis, Comrade (Amb.) Ehis Daniel Omuokhonlen stated this in a statement issued on Wednesday and made available to newsmen in Benin City.
He said the 10,000 students’ march is against electioneering violence in view of the forthcoming September 21, 2024 governorship election in Edo state.
Comrade Omuokhonlen noted that the peaceful march will involve all higher institutions and NANS members across Edo state, beginning from five junction down to the popular King’s Square.
While clarifying its purpose and intentions, the NANS Chairman said the march is not politically motivated, state-sponsored or targeted at select authorities, personalities and individuals.
“Contrary to opinions, the march — NOT a protest — is borne out of a sincere and genuine heart. We are not targeting any person or office, nor is the march sponsored by anybody or government.
“I challenge any public office holder who claims to have contributed to the planning process or sponsored us to come forward with proof and undeniable evidence.
“As the theme: ‘Marching for the survival of Nigerian Students in Edo State’ suggests, we are only marching for our survival and safety, and saying NO to electoral violence in our dear state during the forthcoming September 21, 2024, governorship election.”
He said the march will demand the safety of students, particularly those serving as Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ad-hoc officers during the forthcoming gubernatorial election.
“For instance, it is a widely known fact that our fellow students usually serve as Ad-hoc officers to INEC during elections. As representatives of the students, it is our responsibility to ensure their safety.
Peoplesmind
