Students in Ogun Raise Alarm Over Rising Insecurity

The National Association of Nigerian Students, Ogun State Joint Campus Council, has sounded the alarm over increasing insecurity and robbery affecting students at the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro. They are calling on security agencies and the school management to act quickly.

The association noted that these incidents have caused fear among students and are threatening the peaceful learning environment the institution is known for.

In a statement released on Tuesday by its Public Relations Officer, Adimado Ahmed, who is also a student there, NANS expressed worry about the growing reports of robbery, harassment, and other security issues on and around the campus.

"The increasing reports of robbery, harassment, and other security breaches within and around the institution have created anxiety among students and have the potential to undermine the peaceful academic atmosphere for which the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro is known," the statement said.

The student body urged the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, other security agencies, and the management of the polytechnic to boost security measures to protect students and staff.

They emphasized the need to improve security patrols, increase surveillance around student hostels and other vulnerable spots, gather intelligence, and ensure those behind criminal activities are caught and punished.

"We therefore call on the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), other relevant security agencies, and the management of the institution to take immediate and decisive steps to address this disturbing situation," Ahmed added.

NANS also called on residents of Ilaro to partner with security agencies and the school to enhance safety in the town and surrounding areas.

"Security is a shared responsibility, and the cooperation of residents, landlords, community leaders, business owners, students, staff, and other stakeholders is essential to identifying suspicious activities, providing useful information, and preventing criminal elements from exploiting the town and its surrounding communities," the statement explained.

The association advised students to stay alert, avoid unnecessary late-night outings, report suspicious activities to security agencies, and work with security personnel.

They encouraged students to use the Gateway Shield App to report criminal activities and security issues for quick action by the Ogun State Police Command.

"The safety of students and residents must never be treated as a secondary issue. We believe that through coordinated efforts among the institution’s management, security agencies, the Ilaro community, student leaders, and the wider student body, lasting solutions can be achieved," the statement concluded.

NANS reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the welfare, security, and academic interests of students. They promised to keep engaging relevant stakeholders until things return to normal and students can study without fear.