The leadership of the North Central Coordinate of National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and Coalition of North Central Student Leaders, on Wednesday, demanded an end to the “unnecessary” feud between Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State, and Sen. George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).
The students made the call at a news conference in Abuja, expressing concerns about the festering feud between the duo, they consider are in key positions to collaborate not only to ensure dividends of democracy get to the good people of Benue state but also unite in efforts to transform the state.
The text of the news conference was jointly signed by Comrade Gundu Mimidoo Joy, Public Relations Officer, NANS, Headquarters, Comrade Friday Egga, Coordinator, NANS Zone C (North Central) and Comrade Muhammad Usman, National President, National Association of North Central Indigenous Students and by Joy.
The students while declaring their solidarity with SGF, urged Governor Hyacinth Alia to call to order those within his circle currently antagonizing and scheming against Sen. Akume and his office.
They condemned recent calls for the removal of the SGF, saying the actions were not only a direct affront to the dignity of North Central people but also an attack on the collective aspirations of the North Central region.
“Sen. Akume, a true patriot, statesman, and advocate for youth and student development, has consistently displayed magnanimity and good faith, even in the face of ingratitude.
“We, the students of the North Central region, representing over 10 million Nigerian students, unequivocally condemn this behaviour as unbecoming of a people who should be happy that such exalted position is given to a person from North Central.
ALSO READ: Reps to probe Customs over unabated smuggling at borders
“It is expected that rather than this fight and display of disregard for the needed synergy, people of goodwill from North Central should for the interest of the people rally support for the SGF to enable him to attract the dividends of such position to the geopolitical region.
“The SGF is not just a political leader; he is a National Patron of NANS, a pillar of support to the Nigerian student community, and a symbol of progress for the North Central region.
“Therefore, any attempt to undermine his office or person is a direct attack on our collective future and aspirations.
“The student community across the North Central region stands firmly behind His Excellency, Sen. Dr. George Akume, in recognition of his selfless service and unwavering commitment to youth and student development.
“We wish to advise Governor Hyacinth Alia to call to order those within his circle currently antagonizing and scheming against Sen. Akume and his office. It is imperative that he calls those affiliated to him whose actions he cannot deny knowledge to with immediate effects and in the interest of the state and North Central, desist from this unpatriotic venture as these actions are not only divisive but also detrimental to the unity and progress of the North Central region.
“We urge Governor Alia to prioritize the welfare and development of Benue State and its students rather than engaging in unnecessary political hostilities. The North Central region deserves leaders who foster unity, development, and progress,” the students stated.
READ MORE FROM: NIGERIAN TRIBUNE