The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has issued a stern warning to public office holders across the North-East zone, particularly members of the National Assembly and State Houses of Assembly, over the alleged misuse of constituency project funds in academic institutions.
Speaking on Friday at a joint press conference, the Coordinator of NANS Zone E (North-East), Comrade Muazu Hina, condemned what he described as the increasing practice of channeling constituency project funds into tertiary institutions without transparency, consultation or tangible impact.
“We are alarmed by the growing trend where lawmakers impose constituency projects on tertiary institutions without due process, accountability or measurable benefits to students,” Hina said.
The Zonal Coordinator continued saying “These institutions are gradually being turned into tools for political propaganda rather than centres of learning.”
He warned that NANS would no longer tolerate what he termed the exploitation of struggling academic institutions for personal image laundering, noting that funds meant for development are often diverted into poorly executed, abandoned or completely non-existent projects.
“Funds allocated for constituency development are being misused under the guise of educational interventions, leaving behind substandard projects that do not serve students or the academic community,” he stated.
According to him, the student body is already documenting cases where academic institutions are used as cover for constituency projects, adding that NANS is prepared to take decisive action against any lawmaker found culpable.
“We are actively compiling evidence, and we will not hesitate to name and shame those involved, petition relevant anti-corruption agencies, and mobilise lawful mass action where necessary,” Hina warned.
He further emphasised that institutions of learning should not be treated as dumping grounds for unaccountable projects, stressing that students across the North-East are ready to resist any imposition that does not follow due process or directly benefit education.
“Any attempt to impose projects on campuses without transparency, consultation and clear student benefit will be resisted across institutions in the North-East,” he said.
Hina concluded by declaring that the statement serves as a formal notice to all elected representatives, insisting that Nigerian students are vigilant and organised.
“This is a final warning. Nigerian students are watching, organising and ready to act until accountability, transparency and genuine development are achieved,” he added.
