The National Association of Nigerian Students Ogun State Joint Campus Council has called for an independent investigation into the death of Taiwo Godwin a student of the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital Aro Abeokuta.
The council also distanced itself from a planned protest over the incident saying it had neither authorised nor organised any demonstration over the student’s death.
In a statement signed by its Chairman Habeebullahi Tijani NANS Ogun JCC urged the Students’ Union and other recognised student unions in the institution to engage the hospital management in dialogue to present their demands and seek clarification on the circumstances surrounding Godwin’s death.
It called on the hospital management to listen to the students engage them constructively and address their concerns with the seriousness and urgency the situation required.
The council said dialogue alongside a transparent investigation would help establish the facts promote accountability and prevent further tension.
The association however warned individuals and groups against exploiting the incident for financial gain intimidation or other selfish interests under the guise of fighting for students’ welfare.
‘For the avoidance of doubt NANS Ogun State JCC is not planning or authorising any protest over this incident. Any individuals or groups organising or threatening protests in the name of NANS Ogun JCC without the authorisation of its recognised leadership do not represent the Council or its position’ the statement said.
The council also urged security agencies to remain vigilant and take lawful measures against anyone seeking to exploit the situation to cause disorder engage in extortion or threaten peace and security in Ogun State.
It said its priority was a meeting between the Students’ Union other recognised student unions and the hospital management to address the students’ concerns and work towards a satisfactory resolution.
‘Students must be heard accountability must be pursued and the peace of Ogun State must be protected’ the council stated.
The hospital management has commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Godwin’s death which occurred while he was receiving treatment at its General Medical Practice Unit.
In a statement the hospital expressed sadness over the incident and assured students staff members and the public that the investigation would follow established procedures.
The statement signed by the hospital’s Public Relations Officer Abiola Ajibola on behalf of the Acting Provost/Medical Director said the management was committed to ensuring that the investigation was thorough impartial and transparent.
It added that measures would be taken to establish the facts address any issues identified and ensure that justice was served.