Pascal Oparada
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) was thrown into a turmoil this week when a 43-year-old civil servant, Sunday Dare Asefon became its new national president.
The association is for students who are mostly in their 20s or 30s.
The emerges of Asefon generated uproar on social media as many Nigerians lambasted the 43-year old for not giving the younger candidates a chance.
Aminu Yaro on Twitter said that Nigerian youths are not ready to take the reign of power if they allow Asefon’s emergence to stand.
“If a 43yrs old man can Contest and win NANS President, I’m sorry to say Nigerian Youths are not ready to take over Leadership. NYCN & NANS are the only powerful youths leading associations. When are we going to take over if our youths keep disappointing us like this? Yaro said.
Another Twitter user, Wale Adetona wondered how a civil servant can emerge as the president of a body whose membership should constitute younger people.
“How is a 43 years old man the President of NANS? What does a civil servant & PGD student know about the pains of the average Nigerian student? Adetona said.
Prior to the election which saw Asefon emerge, violence erupted at the venue and over 20 people were injured in the fracas.
In October, the former president of the association, Danielson Akpan was impeached.
