NANS condemns demolition of hostel in Anambra, demands relief for displaced students

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has condemned the displacement of students following the demolition of Legacy Hostel in Ifite, Awka, Anambra State, and called on the state government to take immediate steps to address the situation.

In a press release issued on Saturday, NANS President, Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, expressed concern over the welfare of students who were displaced after the 54-room hostel was demolished by the Anambra State government.

According to the students’ body, the building reportedly developed visible cracks and was on the verge of collapse before it was demolished. NANS said the students, who had occupied the hostel for only four months despite paying for a full year of accommodation, have remained homeless for the past 10 days.

“Neither the hostel management nor the state government had provided accommodation, financial assistance, or other forms of support to the affected students since the demolition,” NANS stated.

It described the situation as inhumane, arguing that the demolition should have been preceded by adequate arrangements for the safe evacuation and welfare of the hostel occupants.

The association also expressed concern that the displaced students had been exposed to security risks, including robbery, kidnapping and other dangers.

“Several affected students had been hospitalised following the incident, and no support had been provided for their medical treatment or welfare.

“We called on the Anambra State Government, led by Governor Charles Soludo, to direct the management of Legacy Hostel to refund all accommodation fees paid by the affected students.

“We also urged the government to provide temporary accommodation or financial assistance, assume responsibility for the medical treatment of injured students, investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, and hold those found responsible accountable”, the statement read.

In addition, the association called for compensation and welfare support for the affected students to cushion the losses and hardship resulting from the demolition.

NANS also appealed to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide emergency relief materials, temporary shelter, medical support and other humanitarian assistance to the displaced students pending a permanent solution.

The association reiterated its commitment to protecting the welfare and interests of Nigerian students, assuring those affected that it would continue to advocate for their rights.