The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has announced plans for a major protest within the next 72 hours, alleging the fraudulent diversion of food commodities by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).
In a statement released on Wednesday and signed by its Deputy Senate President Huzaifa Sabo Usman, NANS revealed that the protest aims to highlight the alleged misappropriation of 42,000 metric tons of food grains intended for impoverished and vulnerable Nigerians.
Usman explained that on August 14, 2024, NANS submitted a Freedom of Information request to NEMA, titled “Alleged Diversion of 42,000 Metric Tons of Grains.” He noted that despite NANS’ efforts to investigate the issue, there has been no satisfactory explanation about the missing food supplies. Investigative reports and several state governors have confirmed that the food did not reach the intended recipients.
“The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security confirmed in a letter dated June 27, 2024, that the 42,000 metric tons of assorted food grains were released to NEMA as per the President’s directive,” Usman said. “However, evidence suggests that NEMA staff, in collusion with corrupt state government officials, have diverted these grains for personal gain, depriving many Nigerians of essential food supplies.”
Usman further stated, “The scale of this diversion suggests deep-seated corruption involving NEMA’s Director General and her management team. This scandal reflects previous mismanagement issues that led to significant civil unrest, including the nationwide End Bad Governance protests.”
In response to these allegations, NANS is demanding an immediate and transparent accounting of the distribution of the 42,000 metric tons of food grains. Usman issued a 72-hour ultimatum to NEMA, stating, “If NEMA fails to provide a satisfactory response within 72 working hours, NANS will proceed with a massive protest at the NEMA headquarters to hold those responsible accountable. NANS calls on all students and the general public to support this cause and join us in our fight for justice and transparency.”
