The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has condemned alleged harassment of students by security operatives and the increasing cost of house rent in student communities across South-West Nigeria.
The association described the development as disturbing and capable of worsening the economic hardship already faced by many students in the region.
In a statement issued on Friday by the NANS National Public Relations Officer, the student body expressed concern over reports that students were being subjected to intimidation, unlawful arrests and extortion by some officers of the Nigeria Police Force.
According to the statement, the association had received several complaints from students residing in off-campus hostels around universities and polytechnics in the South-West.
NANS noted that such actions by security agents undermine the rights of students and create an atmosphere of fear within academic communities.
The association called on the leadership of the police force to investigate the alleged misconduct and ensure that officers respect the rights of students.
It also urged security agencies to adopt professional conduct while carrying out their duties in areas populated by students.
“We have received disturbing reports of harassment, profiling and extortion of students by some security operatives in several South-West communities.
“Students who should be focused on their studies are instead being subjected to intimidation and unnecessary arrests,” the statement said.
NANS further lamented the sharp rise in house rents in many student-dominated areas, saying landlords were exploiting the high demand for accommodation.
The association said the situation had made it increasingly difficult for many students to secure decent accommodation close to their institutions.
According to NANS, in some areas, rents have increased significantly within a short period, forcing students to either relocate to distant communities or live in overcrowded hostels.
The student body appealed to state governments in the South-West to intervene by introducing policies that would regulate excessive rent increases in student communities.
It also urged school authorities to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to address accommodation challenges facing students.
NANS reiterated its commitment to protecting the welfare and rights of Nigerian students and warned that it would not hesitate to mobilise lawful actions if the issues were not addressed.
The association, however, called for dialogue among security agencies, landlords, institutions and student representatives to find lasting solutions to the challenges.
