In a significant move just 10 days before the September 21 governorship election in Edo State, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has officially endorsed Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
NANS Zone B, which includes students from all campuses across 11 states in the South East and South-South, made the announcement at a press conference held at Imaguero Girls College, Benin City, expressing their readiness to work towards Ighodalo’s victory.
During the press conference, Comrade Isaac Izogie Ogie, Deputy Coordinator of NANS Zone B, highlighted the students’ belief in Ighodalo’s competence, capacity, and character, deeming him the most qualified candidate for the job.
“Today is a historic day for us as leaders of the student movement in Edo State, as we openly declare our support for Dr. Asue Ighodalo in the upcoming Edo State Governorship election,” Ogie stated.
He emphasized that NANS had thoroughly examined the candidates from various political parties and found Ighodalo’s manifesto, titled “The Pathway to Prosperity for All,” to be the most compelling, particularly in its focus on education, youth development, and other critical sectors. The manifesto’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of Nigerian students in Edo State was a key factor in their decision.
READ ALSO: INEC chairman reassures stakeholders ahead of Edo governorship election
Ogie also assured that NANS would continue to serve as a bridge between the students and the elected leaders, ensuring that the interests of students are well-represented in governance.
“We will work closely with the incoming administration to ensure that the dividends of democracy reach all students in Edo State,” he concluded, while also urging for a peaceful and violence-free election.
He hinged the decision on the manifesto of Ighodalo aptly christened “The Pathway to Prosperity for All”. He said, “This decision is sequel to the proposal/manifesto of the above named candidate/running mate in education from primary to tertiary level and their willingness to uplift the welfare of Nigerian students residing in Edo State beyond its present state.
“We are also satisfied with their manifesto in economy, agriculture, health, infrastructure, youth development, sports etc. To this end we urge all Nigerian students in Edo State to vote for the Asuen Ighodalo/Osarodion Ogie ticket under the Peoples Democratic Party represented by the umbrella in the ballot paper.”
He promised to continue to act as a bridge between the students and the leaders after they’ve been sworn into office.
“I assure you that we (NANS) will be a bridge between you students and these leaders when they have been elected so as to bring the dividends of democracy to you all. While we pray for a violent free election we pray for journey mercies to all who have journeyed from far and near.,” he concluded.