The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has announced a nationwide protest set to begin on September 15, 2024, aimed at shutting down major cities across Nigeria. The action is a response to the recent increase in fuel prices and dissatisfaction with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Director General, Mele Kyari.
NANS is demanding an immediate reversal of the fuel price hike and the removal of Kyari from his position. The student union has pledged that the protests will be peaceful and conducted within legal boundaries.
To ensure the protest is well-coordinated, NANS has informed several security agencies, including the Nigerian Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Chief of Defence Staff, and state governors about the planned shutdown.
In a statement, NANS expressed, “We write to notify you of an impending massive shutdown of all major cities in Nigeria, effective September 15, 2024. This protest is in response to the recent fuel price hike and the perceived incompetence of the NNPC DG, Mele Kyari.
“The ongoing increase in fuel prices has severely impacted the masses, and we refuse to stand by as a few individuals jeopardize our future. We demand an immediate reversal of the fuel price increase and Mr. Kyari’s removal from office.
“We call on all Nigerian students to join us in this nationwide occupation of major cities. We will not be silenced or intimidated as we fight for a fair deal for students and the general populace. We urge all involved to ensure law and order during the shutdown while we commit to conducting a peaceful and lawful protest.”
