NANS Demands IGP Probe Into Alleged Attempt to Arrest FUOYE VC

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu to investigate the alleged attempt to arrest the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE), Prof. Joshua Ogunwole.

The students’ body also urged the police authorities to sanction any officer found responsible for the alleged operation, which it said could disrupt academic activities and peace at the university.

NANS made the demand in a communiqué issued after its elective convention held at FUOYE and released to journalists in Ado-Ekiti. The document was signed by the NANS Head of Administration, National Headquarters, Taiwo Owolewa; Chairman of the NANS Joint Campus Committee, Ekiti State axis, Toheeb Yejeen Olawale; and FUOYE Students’ Union Government President, Ajayi Olusegun Samuel.

The association alleged that some police operatives surrounded Ogunwole’s residence last Wednesday in an attempt to arrest him and take him to Lagos over a petition reportedly submitted by some individuals within the university.

NANS condemned the alleged action and called for an investigation into the police command that authorised the deployment. It said any officer found to have acted improperly should face appropriate disciplinary measures.

The students’ body argued that any request for information, official records or clarification from the Vice-Chancellor should be handled through established legal and institutional procedures rather than through an alleged dawn operation at his residence.

NANS also urged the police authorities to ensure that their personnel and resources were not used in disputes involving university administrators, alleging that some individuals could be attempting to create tension or a leadership crisis at FUOYE.

The association further expressed support for Ogunwole and passed a vote of confidence in his administration, citing what it described as progress in academic administration, financial management and maintaining peace on campus.

It urged the Vice-Chancellor to remain focused on the university’s development and not be distracted by the allegations surrounding the reported police operation.

NANS also warned against any further attempt to intimidate or harass the Vice-Chancellor, saying it would respond through lawful channels if another incident occurred.

The students appealed to the police to remain impartial in matters involving the university and allow allegations against its officials to be addressed through appropriate legal and institutional processes.

They further called on security agencies to respect the statutory framework governing tertiary institutions and the university environment while carrying out their duties.