NANS condemns demolition of hostel in Anambra, demands relief for displaced students
Students’ Association Condemns Displacement Following Hostel Demolition in Anambra
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has denounced the displacement of students after the demolition of Legacy Hostel in Ifite, Awka, Anambra State. The association is urging the state government to take immediate action to address the situation.
In a press release on Saturday, NANS President Akinteye Babatunde Afeez voiced concerns regarding the welfare of students affected by the demolition. The 54-room hostel was razed by the Anambra State government, reportedly due to structural issues, including visible cracks that posed a risk of collapse.
Students who had occupied the hostel for only four months have found themselves homeless for the past 10 days, despite having paid for a full year of accommodation. According to NANS, neither the hostel management nor the state government has provided support in the aftermath of the demolition.
Describing the current circumstances as inhumane, NANS criticized the lack of pre-demolition arrangements for the safe evacuation and welfare of the residents. The association also raised alarms about the security risks faced by the displaced students, including potential robbery and kidnapping.
In the aftermath of the incident, several students have required hospitalization, yet they have received no assistance for their medical treatment or general welfare.
NANS is calling on Governor Charles Soludo and the Anambra State Government to ensure that the management of Legacy Hostel refunds all accommodation fees paid by the affected students. They are also seeking temporary housing or financial assistance, responsibility for medical costs for injured students, and an investigation into the incident, holding accountable those responsible.
Additionally, the association is requesting compensation and welfare support for the students to help mitigate the losses and hardships they are experiencing. NANS has also appealed to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide emergency relief materials, temporary shelter, and medical support for the displaced individuals until a more permanent solution can be implemented.
The association reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for the rights and welfare of Nigerian students, assuring those affected that their concerns will be continuously championed.
