By Adeola Badru

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), South-West Zone D, has urged students across Osun State to prioritise their personal safety following a series of violent incidents and killings recorded in parts of the state.

In a statement issued and made available to Vanguard, the Coordinator of NANS South-West Zone D, Comrade Adeyemo Josiah Kayode (popularly known as Billion Codes), expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation, describing the recent loss of lives, including that of a teenager, as a worrying development that required urgent attention from all stakeholders.

The association said the incidents had underscored the need for greater vigilance among residents, particularly students who make up a significant proportion of the state’s population.

“The unfortunate loss of innocent lives in recent days, including that of a young teenager, has once again highlighted the need for heightened vigilance and collective efforts towards preserving peace and security within our communities,” the statement said.

NANS advised students residing in Osun State to remain security conscious, exercise caution in their daily activities and avoid unnecessary exposure to potentially volatile situations.

“As students constitute a significant proportion of residents across the state, I wish to strongly advise all Nigerian students residing in Osun State to remain security conscious, exercise caution in their daily movements, avoid unnecessary gatherings in volatile areas, and stay informed about developments within their immediate environment,” the association stated.

The student body stressed that while academic activities and normal social engagements should continue, personal safety must remain paramount.

It also warned students against engaging in actions that could place them at risk, particularly in areas experiencing tension.

The association called on community leaders, political actors and other stakeholders to work towards sustaining peace and preventing further violence.

“The preservation of lives and property must never be sacrificed on the altar of political disagreements or other conflicts. We call on all stakeholders, community leaders, political actors, and concerned citizens to place the interest of peace above every other consideration,“ the statement added.

The association also urged security agencies to intensify efforts to maintain law and order through improved intelligence gathering and proactive security measures aimed at reassuring residents.

“We urge security agencies to intensify efforts towards maintaining law and order, strengthening intelligence gathering, and providing visible reassurance to residents through proactive security measures,” NANS said, noting that the recent incidents had raised concerns among students and residents.

According to the association, sustained action by security authorities is necessary to restore public confidence and guarantee the safety of lives and property across the state.

Reaffirming its commitment to student welfare, NANS said it would continue to monitor developments closely and engage relevant stakeholders in the interest of peace, stability and public safety.

The association further called on students to remain calm, law-abiding and vigilant, while promptly reporting any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities, adding that “A peaceful Osun State remains in the collective interest of us all.“