NANS, CSOs criticises effort to mobilise students' protest against EFCC

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and a coalition of civil society organisations against corruption have strongly condemned a plot by some to stage a national protest against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

In a statement made available to Pulse, NANS President Comrade Lucky Emonefe criticised anonymous groups for exploiting students for their own agendas.

"We strongly condemn the attempt to use students by these shadowy groups to intimidate the EFCC and distract it from its vital mission of ridding the country of corruption.

"Nigerian students and NANS stand in full support of the EFCC and its mandate to combat economic and financial crimes," Emonefe said.

NANS voiced worries over reports that students are being targeted and recruited to hinder the EFCC's important work in protecting the nation's reputation, honor, and economic stability.

Coalition condemn plot to protest against EFCC

Similarly, the coalition convener, Bashir Babatunde Abdulganiu, vowed to resist miscreants' plans to derail the fight against corruption and President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda.

According to the release, "We have observed the unfortunate situation where some persons under investigation by the anti-graft agency have resorted to blackmail and incitement on social media and elsewhere in an attempt to stoke up negative sentiments against the EFCC in a bid to sway the opinions of Nigerians against the anti-corruption crusade of this administration.

"This is totally unacceptable, and we condemn, in strong terms, all those who are directly or remotely connected with this criminal act, as nothing on earth will stop Mr President and the EFCC from logically prosecuting the fight against corruption, cyber crimes and other financial crimes. The is a just fight and there's no hiding place for culprits under this administration."

NANS also called on parents, guardians, and educational institutions to be aware of these manipulative tactics and appropriately guide their wards.

The student union reaffirmed its unwavering support for the EFCC and its efforts to eradicate corruption and cybercrime.

"Together, we can build a Nigeria that we are proud of, a Nigeria where integrity and justice are the cornerstones of our society," Emonefe added.