By: Lauretta Fagbohun, Abeokuta.

The National Association of Nigerian College of Education Students (NANCES) has raised strong objections over what it described as a deliberate attempt to sideline a qualified College of Education student contesting in the forthcoming NANS Zone F (South East Zone) Convention. The concern was expressed in a statement issued on December 8, 2025, by the Global President of NANCES, Comrade Kur Isaac Ushahemba.

In the statement titled “NANCES Condemns Attempted Marginalisation of College of Education Candidate in NANS Zone F Convention,” the association drew attention to the case of Comrade Juliet Obinta, a College of Education student reportedly facing targeted efforts to exclude her from the process. NANCES condemned the move, describing it as unacceptable and undemocratic.

The association emphasized that no College of Education student should be denied the right to contest, participate, or benefit from the democratic structures of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS). It reminded stakeholders that NANS is the umbrella body for all Nigerian students, irrespective of institution type, and that every student possesses the right to vote and be voted for.

NANCES further stressed that no arm or bloc within NANS has the authority to intimidate, suppress, or marginalize another, noting that leadership positions within the association have historically been open to students from all institutions. To reinforce this point, the statement cited the emergence of Comrade Lucky Emonefe, a former College of Education student who rose to become President of NANS.

Calling for unity, NANCES urged College of Education students across the South East Zone to remain steadfast and resist any form of intimidation or suppression directed at their candidate or constituency. The body reaffirmed its commitment to a democratic and inclusive NANS where every student enjoys equal rights and opportunities.

Comrade Ushahemba warned that an injury to one College of Education student is an injury to all, encouraging students to collectively defend their mandate. He insisted that all stakeholders must respect the rights of College of Education students and ensure a fair contest in the NANS Zone F Convention.