The National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, North Central Zone, also known as Zone C, went to the polls today to elect a new leadership that will steer the zone for the next 15 months.
In a goodwill message to delegates, NANS President Dist. Comr. Akinteye Babatunde Afeez called for neutrality, unity and sportsmanship as the convention unfolds.
Addressing the Convention Planning Committee, which serves as the electoral umpire, Afeez said the process must be transparent and free from interference.
“This is not the time for partisanship; rather, it is a time to ensure that the organization at the level of the Zone is not placed on a ticking time bomb,” he said. “Be fair to all aspirants and ensure that the outcome reflects the true will of the majority. Do not interfere with the process.”
To the Senators who are the legitimate voters, the NANS President urged them to “vote according to your conscience, vote for the candidate you believe in, and, above all, choose patriotism over nepotism.”
He also appealed to candidates to accept the results in good faith.
“Factionalism is never an option. Beyond today, we must focus on the greater good and the continued unity and strength of our organization. If the election does not go your way this time, it is not the end of life. This election is never a do-or-die affair,” he said.
Afeez further charged stakeholders in the zone to put the organization first. He described them as “guides and guardians” whose mentorship is needed to preserve gains made in the past.
The President said he would have attended the convention physically but was kept away by “a tragic and unfortunate incident.” He, however, assured members that he remains with them “in spirit” and wishes them a “rancor-free convention.”
He reiterated his commitment to democracy, fairness, justice, integrity and unity within NANS.
“As your President, committed to the ideals of democracy, fairness, justice, integrity, and unity, I am thrilled to address the entirety of NANS Zone C,” he stated. “Beyond our sentiments, our focus must remain fixated on our collective will, unity, and the strengthening of the organization.”
