A group describing itself as concerned stakeholders within Nigeria’s student movement has petitioned President Bola Tinubu over alleged diversion of 50 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses reportedly donated by the Federal Government to the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).
In the petition, the group called for an independent audit and investigation into the handling of the buses, which were said to have been provided to ease transportation challenges in tertiary institutions across the country.
The petitioners alleged that some of the buses were diverted from their intended purpose, while others are currently unaccounted for. They claimed that only a limited number of the vehicles are traceable within student communities.
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Those named in the petition include the Minister for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande; the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Student Engagement, Asefon Sunday Dayo; and two former NANS leaders, Akinteye Babatunde and Lucky Emonefe.
The individuals mentioned have not publicly responded to the allegations as of the time of filing this report.
Beyond the buses, the petition raised concerns over the management of funds allegedly mobilised for NANS conventions. The petitioners claimed that despite significant resources being raised, some delegates reportedly faced logistical challenges during recent conventions.
The letter also questioned the transparency surrounding government-facilitated employment opportunities allegedly linked to former student leaders. It called for clarification on the criteria and processes used in allocating such opportunities.
Additionally, the petition referenced claims circulating within sections of the student movement concerning alleged criminal associations involving certain aspirants for future NANS leadership positions. However, no official findings or charges have been announced by relevant authorities regarding these claims.
The petitioners urged the President to direct appropriate anti-corruption and security agencies to conduct:
- A comprehensive audit of the CNG buses reportedly allocated to NANS;
- A review of employment opportunities linked to student leaders;
- An investigation into the handling of convention-related funds; and
- A broader assessment of governance practices within the student body.
They argued that addressing the concerns transparently would help restore confidence in the student movement, which they described as facing internal credibility challenges.
The petition further cautioned against the use of the Presidency’s name in internal student politics without verification, warning that unsubstantiated claims of endorsement could create reputational risks.
As of press time, there has been no official statement from the Presidency or the other individuals named in the petition regarding the allegations.
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