In a groundbreaking turn of events, Pedro Obi, a Ph.D. student of Guidance and Counseling studies from Delta State University, has emerged victorious as the new President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS). Obi secured an overwhelming 212 votes, triumphing over his closest contender, Lucky Emonefe, who garnered 83 votes.
This historic election, which saw the presidency zoned to Zone B (South-south), has been marred by alarming incidents. Reports confirm heavy shootings at the Old Parade Ground, the venue of the national convention held on Friday, December 1. The violence, erupting from Thursday and persisting through Friday, caused injuries among students due to attacks by alleged thugs loyal to a candidate reportedly favored by President Bola Tinubu’s son, Seyi.
Further revelations surfaced as SaharaReporters exposed allegations that Seyi Tinubu channeled millions of naira towards security operatives and mobilization of cultists to manipulate the convention and install his preferred candidate. Sources suggested that this move aimed to suppress any uprising of Nigerian students against the current administration, spearheaded by Seyi’s father.
The alleged funding followed assurances from the Convention Planning Committee of NANS to deliver Tinubu’s favored candidates. Statements from sources indicated substantial monetary transactions to compromise the integrity of the NANS National Convention.
Prior to these events, objections had arisen against the candidacy of Lucky Emonefe, a 48-year-old, stirring dissent among students and stakeholders within the association.
Pedro Obi’s triumph stands amidst a backdrop of controversy and alleged interference, marking a significant juncture in NANS’ history while raising crucial questions about the integrity of student leadership elections in Nigeria.
