NANS petitions A’Ibom police commissioner over brutality on students
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has petitioned the Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, CP Mohammed Azare, over brutality of students in the state by police officers.
According to the petition signed by NANS National Deputy President, Comr. Michael Ayah, the latest incident was the harassment of one Miss Abigail Aniefiok, who is the reigning Miss AkwaPoly, and three other students of Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area.
“I am writing on behalf of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) to formally express our deep concern regarding a recent incident involving Miss Abigail Aniefiok, who is the reigning Miss Akwapoly, along with three other students. On Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at approximately 9:02 PM, these students were harassed and unlawfully detained by officers of the Nigerian Police Force while they were making their way home from a photoshoot along Library Avenue in Ikot Ekpene.
“This alarming incident is not an isolated occurrence. We have received a growing number of reports from students attending Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic highlighting instances of police harassment and brutality. These ongoing issues are creating an atmosphere of fear and distrust among the student body in that area. It is disheartening to witness our peers feeling unsafe and uncomfortable in their own environment due to the actions of those who are meant to protect them.
“The primary role of the Nigerian Police Force is to safeguard lives and properties. However, when citizens experience harassment instead of protection, it raises serious questions about the effectiveness of law enforcement in our communities. The impact of such incidents on students is profound, leading to a significant loss of faith in the Police Force as a whole. Many students are left questioning their safety and the very purpose of the police, which contradicts the foundational principles of security and support that should be provided by this institution.
“We strongly urge the authorities to take immediate action to address this troubling trend of police misconduct and to ensure that such incidents do not continue to happen. It is crucial for the safety and well-being of all students that the Nigerian Police Force operates with integrity and accountability.
“I write this letter to formally express our profound displeasure regarding the recent incidents of harassment and unlawful detention faced by students at the hands of certain officers within the Nigerian Police Force. If appropriate actions are not taken against the few individuals who exploit their power to perpetrate such unjust actions against our students, we will be left with no option but to relocate the Emancipation Barracks of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) to the Area Command Police Station in Ikot Ekpene.
“This relocation will remain in effect until our demands for justice are met. Moreover, we want to make it clear that the Nigerian Police Force should prepare for the possibility of 2 million Nigerian students taking to the streets in peaceful protest.
“Under my leadership, we will not tolerate any form of harassment, intimidation, or abuse directed towards Nigerian students. The safety and dignity of our students are non-negotiable. We firmly believe that every student deserves to feel secure and protected within their community.
“We hereby request that the Commissioner of Police conducts a thorough investigation into these troubling incidents. It is essential that this investigation be transparent and comprehensive, as it will play a critical role in restoring confidence among the student body. Ensuring accountability and justice is paramount for the safety and well-being of all students moving forward.
“We hope for prompt and decisive action on this matter, as we seek to uphold the rights and dignity of all students. We eagerly await your response and the steps that will be taken to address these serious concerns” he stated.
