Orisamoluwa Adekunle, former Sports Director of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), has dismissed claims circulating from a viral video ahead of the 2026 NANS National Convention, describing the footage as deliberately edited and taken out of context.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Adekunle said the clip — which surfaced online — was part of a private political discussion initiated by Comrade Alao John, who had approached him for support in the upcoming election.

“Only fragments of the conversation were released, while the beginning, context and conclusion were removed,” Adekunle stated. “The discussion was strictly political analysis regarding the election. At no point did I mention the name of Comrade Akinteye Babatunde (Babtee), attack any individual personally, spread falsehood, or engage in defamation.”

He emphasized that his remarks focused solely on governance direction, leadership capacity, and the future direction of NANS, describing them as issue-based rather than personal.

Adekunle warned that twisting political analysis into personal attacks undermines the spirit of student unionism, where robust, open debate should be encouraged.

“If anyone feels challenged by policy-based analysis, the proper response is debate — not blackmail,” he declared.

He confirmed his support for Comrade Opiano’s presidential bid in 2026, citing the aspirant’s leadership qualities, ideological clarity, and commitment to student welfare.

Adekunle called on all aspirants to engage in open debates, present clear manifestos, and allow delegates to decide freely without coercion or intimidation.

“I will not be intimidated into silence,” he added. “Issue-based engagement and democratic participation must remain the foundation of NANS politics.”

The controversy highlights the heated atmosphere building toward the 2026 NANS convention, with various factions already positioning themselves ahead of the election.