By: Standard Times Nigeria Correspondent

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Joint Campus Committee (JCC), Ogun State, has elected a new set of leaders, with Comrade Olabode Faruq emerging as chairman following a keenly contested convention.

Faruq secured seven votes out of the 13 cast by delegates at the convention held on Saturday, drawing participation from representatives of accredited tertiary institutions across the state.

Speaking with journalists after his emergence, the newly elected chairman described his victory as a collective mandate and pledged to lead an inclusive administration focused on unity, accountability, and the protection of students’ rights.

“This victory is not mine alone; it is a collective mandate for progress, unity, and purposeful representation. Under my leadership, no student will be subjected to injustice. We will stand firm, speak boldly, and act decisively in defence of student rights and dignity,” Faruq stated.

The convention was widely commended by stakeholders, who described the electoral process as transparent and credible.

Faruq expressed appreciation to the NANS National President, Comrade Olushola Oladoja, and the South-West Zonal Coordinator, Comrade Adeyemo Kayode, for their roles in upholding democratic values within the student body.

He also lauded the Independent Convention Planning Committee, chaired by Comrade Akinbodunse Sileola Praise, for organizing what he termed a credible and well-coordinated election.

The newly elected leadership further acknowledged the Ogun State Government for providing an enabling environment for youth engagement and student participation.

However, the convention was not without controversy, as it was reportedly followed by an alleged attack on the Special Assistant to the Governor on Students’ Matters, Comrade Adeyemi Azeez Amoo.

Condemning the incident, Faruq described the act as unacceptable and reaffirmed the association’s zero tolerance for violence.

“It is with deep concern that I address the unfortunate incident involving an attack on Comrade Adeyemi Azeez. On behalf of the entire NANS Ogun JCC leadership, I strongly condemn this act of violence and lawlessness. Such behaviour has no place in our movement,” he said.

He disclosed plans to visit the victim and called for a thorough investigation into allegations of unprofessional conduct by some security personnel during the event.

Faruq also urged stakeholders, including student leaders, institutional authorities, and government partners, to strengthen collaboration in addressing challenges affecting students in the state.

“The challenges before us demand more than participation; they require unity of purpose and deliberate action. My administration is committed to an inclusive, transparent, and student-centred leadership,” he added.

In his remarks, the South-West Zonal Coordinator, Comrade Adeyemo Kayode, described Faruq’s emergence as a reflection of the confidence reposed in him by student leaders across Ogun State.

Kayode expressed optimism that the new leadership would enhance advocacy, unity, and the welfare of students, assuring them of the continued support of the South-West zone.