NANS demands release of detained Osun student leader

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Southwest Zone has issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the Osun State Police Command. They demand the immediate release or formal charging of detained student leader Alalade Felix, known as "Machiavelli." The association's leadership visited the Osun State Police Command in Osogbo regarding Felix's arrest and continued detention.

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Our position is straightforward: If such evidence exists, place it before a competent court and prosecute him according to law.

According to NANS, Felix's wife reported that police operatives entered their residence around 1 am, forcibly taking him away without providing clear information about his whereabouts or the reasons for his arrest. The student leader was initially traced to the Area Command in Ilesa before being transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Osogbo.

The arrest occurs amidst heightened political tension in Osun State as the August 15 governorship election approaches. Security agencies are under pressure to maintain neutrality and prevent electoral violence. NANS stated that the police allege Felix's connection to a violent incident during a political procession, claiming video evidence exists. However, the student body insists that any evidence must be presented in a competent court.

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During our engagements at the Police Command, we sought clarity and credible material supporting the allegations. No such material was presented. The mere existence of an allegation cannot become a substitute for judicial scrutiny or an excuse for prolonged detention.

"Our position is straightforward: If such evidence exists, place it before a competent court and prosecute him according to law," NANS declared in a joint statement. The association reported seeking clarification and credible material supporting the allegations during their visit to the police command but claimed none was presented. NANS stressed that "an allegation is not a conviction. An investigation is not a sentence," and that prolonged detention should not serve as punishment. They called on the Inspector-General of Police to ensure officers involved act professionally and without political influence, particularly to protect public confidence in security agencies during the sensitive election period.

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An allegation is not a conviction. An investigation is not a sentence.