By Ogochukwu Isioma
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Joint Campus Council (JCC), Edo State, has denied the constitution of a Convention Planning Committee (CPC) for fresh JCC elections in the state.
This is in reaction to a statement credited to Comrade Isaac Ogieva, Deputy Coordinator of NANS Zone B, who purportedly constituted a CPC to oversee the conduct of fresh JCC elections in Edo.
In a statement jointly signed by the NANS JCC Chairman, Comrade (Amb.) Ehis Daniel Omuokhonlen, and Secretary General, Comrade Eguagie Iredia, the students’ body described Ogieva’s action as a clear contravention of the NANS Constitution and a blatant attempt to usurp its powers.
The council expressed shock and dismay at Ogieva’s desperation to undermine its authority, even before its tenure has formally come to an end.
The NANS JCC noted that Ogieva failed to consult relevant bodies and stakeholders before embarking on the action, including its Chairman, Comrade (Amb.) Ehis Daniel, whose name was mentioned in the release.
The student leaders raised questions about Ogieva’s motives and the interests he serves. The NANS JCC vowed not to stand idly by while its Constitution is trampled upon.
The council also pointed out that the subsection of the NANS Constitution and Charter of Demand cited by Ogieva does not empower him to conduct elections.
The NANS JCC, therefore, declared the CPC list announced by Ogieva as illegal, unconstitutional, null, and void. The council assured Nigerian students that it will continue to serve their interests and uphold the Constitution of the organization.
