Heavy gunshots rocked the old parade ground in Abuja on Wednesday during the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) convention.
Videos obtained by Sahara Reporters captured the intensity of the chaos.
The convention, aimed at electing new national leaders for NANS, took a dangerous turn when thugs allegedly associated with Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, unleashed violence. Reports indicate that these thugs, led by Sunday Asefon, Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Students Engagements, attacked opposition delegates, leaving some students injured from gunshots and machetes.
Earlier concerns had been raised about the candidacy of Lucky Emonefe, a 48-year-old individual who left the College of Education, Warri, Delta State two decades ago. Students and stakeholders opposed his candidacy, citing concerns about political influence and the age of the candidate.
Critics express dismay at the involvement of older individuals in student politics, emphasizing the need for leaders more focused on the welfare of students rather than personal ambitions. The election seems to be marred by political maneuvering, with allegations of financial influence and support from various political figures.
As the chaos unfolded, a student remarked, “It’s extremely shameful to see old men fighting for positions in NANS when they should be more concerned about their families.” The situation escalated as Emonefe, supported by the Delta State Government machinery, faced opposition and protests from other aspirants.
With seven other candidates vying for the position of NANS President, the convention, intended for democratic leadership selection, has taken a distressing turn marked by violence and political tensions.
Another student said;
“Imagine someone who left the College of Education since 2003, about 20 years ago is now planning to become President of the association due to selfishness of some people working with politicians.”
“This same old man, his wife is a serving councillor under PDP in Delta, she is serving her second tenure, so you can guess his age. He is supported by the Delta State Government machinery over this.
“But in Abuja, he is claiming to be an APC member after racketeers led by Asefon collected millions of Naira from him and sold him to Seyi Tinubu as APC candidate for NANS President. Now they came here and started shooting anyhow and attacking delegates who are not in Lucky’s support.”