The National Association of Nigerian Students has expressed support for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s operations against financial crimes, while cautioning the anti-graft agency and other security authorities against actions that could intimidate or harass students.
NANS stated this in a statement signed by its Chief of Staff to the President, Comr. Adegoke Naheem Ademola, on Thursday, stressing that the student body was not opposed to the lawful activities of the EFCC and did not condone financial crimes.
The association described itself as a key stakeholder in nation-building and said it remained firmly opposed to fraud and other activities capable of undermining Nigeria’s integrity and economic development.
According to NANS, it supports the EFCC’s statutory mandate to investigate, prevent and prosecute financial crimes, noting that no individual should be considered above the law regardless of status or position.
The association said a Nigeria free from financial crimes would create a stronger environment for institutions to function effectively while improving public confidence in the country’s justice and governance systems.
However, NANS warned that legitimate law-enforcement activities must be carried out within the limits of the law and with due regard for the rights and dignity of students.
Ademola said the association was opposed to “any form of illegal abuse, harassment, intimidation, or operation that makes our students feel unsafe or threatened.”
He acknowledged the responsibility of security agencies to investigate suspected offences and enforce the law but stressed that such duties should not undermine the safety, dignity or fundamental rights of Nigerian students.
The statement also referenced EFCC operations conducted in the early hours of Thursday in Akure, Ondo State. However, NANS did not provide specific details about the operation, the individuals involved or the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The student body urged relevant authorities to strike a balance between effective enforcement and respect for citizens’ rights, particularly when their operations involve students.
NANS maintained that supporting the fight against financial crimes does not mean endorsing unlawful conduct, insisting that the enforcement of the law must itself be guided by the principles of legality, accountability and respect for human dignity.
