The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Zone B has distanced itself from a planned protest against the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), describing those organizing it as impostors."
During a recent press briefing in Port Harcourt, Comrade Isaac Ogieva, the Zone B Coordinator, emphasized that the association did not approve any protest about the NDDC. He reiterated their commitment to dialogue and peaceful discussions.
"We are a responsible group that respects the law. Our aim is to support Nigerian students in a peaceful and constructive manner," Ogieva explained. He urged both students and the public to disregard any claims connecting NANS to the protest.
Ogieva also praised the NDDC leadership, especially Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, for their various development initiatives, including solar lighting, international scholarships, and the construction of hostels and classrooms in schools throughout the Niger Delta. He pointed out the significance of the Youth Internship Scheme, calling it a major step forward for empowering youth.
The student leader encouraged security agencies to look into and apprehend those believed to be funding and participating in unauthorized protests that could lead to unrest. He suggested that the NDDC work together with legitimate student associations like NANS Zone B and the Niger Delta Students Union Government (NIDSUG) to promote peace and progress.
In a related remark at the event, Comrade Scott Ogunseri, the President of NIDSUG, clarified that his organization is not part of the planned protest, which he said is connected to Mr. Romes Emieye Kemepade and Mr. Idowu Ayemobuwa.
"This protest lacks approval and is not legitimate. We firmly reject these actions and urge our members and others to ignore these impostors," Ogunseri stated.
He acknowledged the NDDC management for its valuable projects and called for support of a proposed bursary for the Niger Delta, along with expanding the Foreign Postgraduate Scholarship program to assist more students, especially those attending universities in Nigeria.
Ogunseri also expressed his gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, a former student leader, as the Managing Director of the NDDC. "This appointment aligns well with the Renewed Hope Agenda because Dr. Ogbuku understands the struggles faced by students and young people," he remarked.
He promised to maintain open communication with the NDDC to foster development in the Niger Delta and urged security forces to take action against unauthorized protests that could disrupt peace in the area.
