The leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to sack all his cabinet ministers who are not performing well in the delivery of their mandates.
The student body has, however, appealed to the Federal Government to raise the student loan upkeep from N20,000 to N40,000 to address rising educational costs.
NANS Senate President, Akinteye Babatunde, who addressed newsmen on Monday in Abuja, said Nigerians, especially students, have been severely affected by the astronomical increase in fuel prices in the country.
He acknowledged the efforts of President Tinubu and his administration in implementing reforms aimed at steering the country towards growth and stability.
“However, we urge the President to consider the plight of ordinary Nigerians as these reforms take shape. We respectfully ask that these policies be rolled out in phases to give citizens the breathing space to adapt and survive.
“While we understand that the removal of fuel subsidies is intended for the greater good, we ask for visible benefits amid the current hardship.
“Furthermore, we call for the dismissal of non-performing ministers. Many ministries have been passive, indifferent, and silent, failing to communicate their plans or progress to the Nigerian people. It is time for a more dynamic and accountable government.
“In addition, we urge the government to prioritise the reduction of excessive government spending. At a time when Nigerians are being asked to make sacrifices, it is only fair that those in power lead by example,” he stated.
Babatunde, while expressing strong opposition to protest actions against the fuel price hike, insisted that protests would be a last resort should negotiations with the government fail.
He announced the composition of a 10-man committee headed by the NANS President, Comrade Lucky Emonefe, to engage the Federal Government and key stakeholders on the need to reduce the price of fuel in the country.
Tribune Online
