The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has expressed support for the operations of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), while kicking against any form of harassment, intimidation or abuse of students in the course of the Commission’s activities.
The association stated this in a clarification on the operations of the EFCC, Ado-Ekiti Zonal Command, in the early hours of Thursday in Akure, Ondo State.
In a statement signed by Comr. Adegoke Naheem Ademola, Chief of Staff to the NANS President, the association said it was not opposed to the activities of the anti-graft agency and did not support financial crimes in any form.
NANS said it recognised the mandate of the EFCC to investigate and prosecute financial crimes in accordance with the law, stressing that no Nigerian, irrespective of status, should be above the law.
It stated that it supported the operations of the EFCC, Ado-Ekiti Zonal Command, as well as the Commission’s efforts to investigate, prevent and prosecute financial crimes.
According to the association, the fight against financial crimes was crucial to the future of Nigeria, as a society free from fraud would strengthen institutions, protect opportunities and boost citizens’ confidence in the system.
“As the apex student representative body in Nigeria, we believe that the fight against financial crimes is important to the future of our country,” the statement said.
NANS therefore expressed support for every lawful effort by the EFCC to rid the country of financial crimes and strengthen accountability.
However, the association said its support for the anti-graft campaign did not extend to what it described as illegal abuse, harassment, intimidation or operations that could make students feel unsafe or threatened.
It said security agencies should carry out their lawful duties within the bounds of the law and with due regard for the safety and dignity of Nigerian students.
“We want a Nigeria where financial crimes have no place, where accountability is upheld, and where the law applies equally to every citizen,” NANS said.
The association reiterated its commitment to supporting efforts aimed at building a financially crime-free society while advocating the protection and dignity of Nigerian students.
