The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has declared that it will not participate in protests organized by activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, and his Take It Back (TIB) Movement, alleging that the group has deviated from genuine activism and is pursuing political objectives.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Friday, NANS President, Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, said the student body had carefully assessed the activities of the movement and concluded that it could no longer be regarded as an independent advocacy platform.
According to Akinteye, the Take It Back Movement has blurred the lines between activism, journalism, and politics, creating uncertainty about its true intentions.
“The movement has increasingly been perceived by many Nigerians as a political organisation rather than an independent activist group committed solely to advocacy,” he stated.
The NANS president also dismissed reports questioning his status as a student, describing them as false and misleading.
“I am a bona fide student of Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, and attempts to portray me otherwise are deliberate efforts to discredit my leadership and misinform the public,” Akinteye said.
He further alleged that concerns had been raised in some quarters regarding the associations of the Take It Back Movement, claiming that certain individuals have linked the group to organisations such as Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Eastern Security Network. However, he did not provide evidence to support the allegation.
Speaking on ongoing concerns over the abduction of students and teachers in parts of the country, Akinteye said NANS would continue to advocate for the safe return of all victims but would not align itself with Sowore’s protest activities.
“We will not join forces with Omoyele Sowore or the Take It Back Movement in any protest concerning kidnapped students and teachers,” he declared.
Instead, he commended the efforts of labour and education stakeholders, including the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Nigeria Union of Teachers, for their support for victims and their families.
Akinteye reiterated NANS’ commitment to holding authorities accountable over insecurity while maintaining a peaceful approach to advocacy.
“NANS remains committed to demanding the release of abducted students and ensuring that government at all levels fulfills its responsibility to protect lives and property. However, we will continue to pursue these objectives through peaceful and constructive engagement,” he said.
He added that the association would not support any action capable of undermining public order, stressing that student leaders remain dedicated to promoting peace, stability, and the welfare of Nigerian students.
