The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has publicly disassociated itself from a purported threat to stage a nationwide protest over the appointment of Eric Chelle as Head Coach of the Super Eagles.
In a statement released on Friday by Babatunde Akinteye, the NANS Senate President, the association dismissed claims made by one Abdul-Yekinn Odunayo, who identified himself as the Clerk of the NANS Senate.
Baseless Claims and Fraudulent Allegations
Akinteye categorically stated that the individual in question holds no position within NANS and described his assertions as “baseless” and “fraudulent.”
He urged both Ergo and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to disregard the threats, emphasizing that the claims do not reflect the stance of National Association of Nigerian Students or the sentiments of Nigerian students.
In his statement, Akinteye condemned the actions of Odunayo, labeling him a criminal seeking to exploit NANS’ reputation for personal gain.
He also called on security agencies to investigate the matter, warning that such recklessness undermines the credibility of NANS as an institution.
Support for NFF’s Decisions and Recommendations
Akinteye acknowledged the NFF’s authority to make technical decisions regarding Nigerian football and urged them to remain steadfast in their professional judgments.
He also suggested that the Federation expand its scouting activities to Nigerian campuses to discover and nurture local talent, which could benefit the future of Nigerian football.
The National Association of Nigerian Students leadership reiterated that no official organ of the association had endorsed any protest against Chelle’s appointment.
