The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has strongly condemned the alleged use of force by security operatives against students of Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, who were peacefully protesting earlier today, Tuesday, January 20, 2026.
This was contained in a statement issued by the Deputy Coordinator of NANS, Zone C, Comrade Abiola Azeez Adigun.
The student body described the incident as “brutal, unjustified and an affront to democratic values.”
It insists that the protest was lawful and conducted within the bounds of the Constitution.
According to NANS, the students were exercising their fundamental right to peaceful protest when they were reportedly attacked, leading to injuries, trauma and psychological distress among several students.
“Peaceful protest is a constitutionally guaranteed right, not a privilege to be suppressed with batons, intimidation or violence.
“The decision to unleash force on unarmed students reflects a disturbing abuse of power and a gross deviation from the professional mandate of the Nigeria Police Force to protect lives and property,” the association said.
NANS warned that the incident amounts to an attempt to criminalise legitimate dissent and a direct provocation against the Nigerian student movement.
The association demanded an immediate, transparent and independent investigation into the incident, calling for all officers allegedly involved to be identified and sanctioned in accordance with the law.
“Failure to ensure accountability will leave NANS with no option but to explore all lawful and coordinated actions available to the Nigerian student movement to defend the rights and safety of its members,” the statement added.
NANS said it would continue to resist any form of oppression, intimidation or abuse of power against Nigerian students.
“The era of silence in the face of injustice is over. Nigerian students will continue to speak, stand and resist any attempt to trample on their rights.”
The protest at the institution reportedly led to heightened security presence on campus and the suspension of academic activities, as authorities moved to restore order.
