The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has issued a strong call to the National Assembly, urging lawmakers to prioritize national interests over personal conflicts and divisive rhetoric. The student body expressed concern over the recent clash in the Senate between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who accused Akpabio of sexual harassment.
In a statement signed by NANS National President, Comrade Oladoja Olushola, and National Public Relations Officer, Comrade Samson Adeyemi, the association emphasized the need for lawmakers to uphold the integrity of the legislative institution.
The statement, titled “Refocusing Legislative Efforts on Delivering Good Governance to Nigerians,” was made available to Vanguard in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
NANS condemned the rising trend of personal attacks and distractions within the Senate, warning that such conduct could derail crucial national efforts to combat inflation, lower the cost of living, and foster socio-economic stability. The association reminded lawmakers that their primary duty is to legislate policies that improve the lives of Nigerians, not engage in political brawls that could tarnish the Senate’s reputation on the global stage.
“The world is watching,” the statement read. “It would be disheartening to see the reputation of our legislative institution reduced to an object of ridicule before adversaries of the state and the international community.”
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While reaffirming confidence in the leadership of the 10th Senate under Senator Akpabio, NANS stressed that all lawmakers must adhere to ethical standards, maintain public trust, and avoid actions that could escalate tensions in the country. The body urged the Senate to take appropriate disciplinary measures against any senator found guilty of misconduct after due legal process.
Furthermore, the student association called on the Senate President to strengthen collaboration between the National Assembly and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to ensure that democratic dividends reach the Nigerian people.
“As Nigerian students, we will not stand idly while the integrity of our political institutions is eroded,” NANS stated. “We call for calm, restraint, and a renewed commitment to peace-building in the interest of national progress and the well-being of all Nigerians.” The statement concludes.
