The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has condemned the demolition of Legacy Hostel in Ifite, Awka, Anambra State, which it said has left students displaced and without adequate support.
In a press statement issued on Saturday, NANS President, Akinteye Afeez, expressed concern over the welfare of the affected students following the demolition of the 54-room hostel by the Anambra State government.
According to the association, the hostel had developed visible cracks and was reportedly on the verge of collapse before it was demolished.
NANS said the affected students had occupied the facility for only four months despite paying for a full year of accommodation and had remained homeless for the past 10 days.
The student body alleged that neither the hostel management nor the state government had provided alternative accommodation, financial assistance or other forms of relief to the displaced students since the demolition.
Describing the situation as inhumane, NANS argued that adequate arrangements should have been made for the safe evacuation and welfare of the occupants before the building was demolished.
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It also raised concerns that the displaced students have been exposed to security risks, including robbery, kidnapping and other dangers.
The association further claimed that some of the affected students had been hospitalized following the incident, alleging that no support had been provided for their medical treatment and welfare.
NANS called on the Anambra State government to direct the management of Legacy Hostel to refund all accommodation fees paid by the affected students.
It also urged the government to provide temporary accommodation or financial assistance, take responsibility for the medical treatment of injured students, investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure that anyone found culpable is held accountable.
In addition, the association called for compensation and welfare support for the displaced students to cushion the hardship resulting from the demolition.
NANS also appealed to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide emergency relief materials, temporary shelter, medical support and other humanitarian assistance pending a permanent solution.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the welfare and interests of Nigerian students, assuring those affected that it would continue to advocate for their rights.
