NAUS OPPOSE OCTOBER 1 PLANNED NATIONWIDE PROTEST

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The National Association of University Students (NAUS) leadership has opposed the proposed nationwide protest by some Nigerians scheduled for October 1.

The students’ body called on the Federal Government to give 3,000 compressed natural gas (CNG) powered buses to all institutions to help cushion the effects of subsidy on university students.

Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Sunday, NAUS National President, Comrade Josiah Peter urged the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to take proactive steps to ensure all filling stations sell PMS at a uniform price and to make sure our refineries are operational.

He commended President Bola Tinubu’s efforts in repositioning the education sector and the introduction of the student loan scheme.

Peter said: “Having observed the current hardships, from foreign exchange irregularities to fuel scarcity, skyrocketing food prices, and the general decline in living conditions, we felt it necessary to address the nation and the student populace. We recognise the profound difficulties caused by the recent hike in fuel prices and understand the strain it places on our students and society.

“We appeal to the Federal Government to distribute 3,000 CNG buses to all institutions to help mitigate the impact of subsidy removal on university students.

“NAUS calls on the NNPCL to ensure all filling stations sell PMS at a uniform price and to encourage companies like Dangote to build more refineries to alleviate the effects of high fuel prices on Nigerians while appealing for a reduction in petroleum product prices.

“We urge all university students to shun all forms of protest, as we will engage in dialogue with relevant authorities to protect NAUS’s interests, except as a last resort if our demands are not met.”

Peter passed a vote of confidence on the Senior Special Assistant to the President on student engagement, Sunday Asefon.