DISCLAIMER ON THE PURPORTED ENDORSEMENT OF POLITICAL FIGURES BY “IKIRE STUDENTS”

OFFICE OF THE OUTGOING NATIONAL PRESIDENT

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF IKIRE STUDENTS (NAIS)

NATIONAL HEADQUARTERS

PRESS STATEMENT

RE: DISCLAIMER ON THE PURPORTED ENDORSEMENT OF POLITICAL FIGURES BY “IKIRE STUDENTS”

The National Headquarters of the National Association of Ikire Students (NAIS) has taken note of a press release circulating in certain quarters under the caption: “Ikire Students Declare Support for Governor Adeleke’s Re-election, Endorse Senator Lere Oyewumi for Second Term.”

For the avoidance of doubt, the National Association of Ikire Students (NAIS), National Headquarters, wishes to state clearly and unequivocally that it neither authorized, issued, approved, nor endorsed the said publication or the political position contained therein. At no time did the National Headquarters of the Association adopt any resolution endorsing any political office holder, political tendency, or aspirant.

As the umbrella body representing Ikire students, NAIS remains an apolitical, inclusive, and student-centered association, established primarily to promote the welfare, unity, academic advancement, and collective interests of all Ikire students, both at home and in the diaspora. In line with this mandate, the Association does not align itself with partisan political endorsements.

While the Association remains apolitical, it is important to emphasize that individual students and groups of students retain their constitutional rights to freedom of association, expression, and political participation. They are at liberty to hold and express personal political views, preferences, or affiliations in their private capacities. However, such individual or group positions must not be construed, presented, or circulated as representing the official position of the National Association of Ikire Students (NAIS), National Headquarters.

Accordingly, any statement or publication made in the name of “Ikire Students” as though it reflects the collective and official stance of all Ikire students should be treated with caution and must not be interpreted as the position of NAIS unless expressly issued or duly authorized by the National Headquarters of the Association.

The Association also wishes to place on record its profound respect for all leaders, stakeholders, and public office holders who have contributed in one way or another to the growth, development, and progress of Ikire Kingdom and to the advancement of students’ welfare. In this regard, we acknowledge with appreciation the support and goodwill extended to the Association over time by distinguished sons and daughters of Ikire, including Senator Lere Oyewumi, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), other indigenous leaders, and elected representatives. We equally hold in due regard the constitutional office of the Executive Governor of Osun State and remain respectful of constituted authority at all times.

Nevertheless, such respect, goodwill, and recognition must not be mistaken for partisan alignment or political endorsement on the part of the association.

The leadership of NAIS National Headquarters remains firmly committed to the principles of inclusiveness, fairness, neutrality, and constructive engagement with all stakeholders in the overall interest of Ikire students and Ikire Kingdom at large. Our administration shall continue to provide a common platform that accommodates every Ikire student, irrespective of personal opinion, political leaning, or ideological preference.

We therefore reiterate that NAIS belongs to all Ikire students and shall continue to operate in a manner that promotes unity, mutual respect, and collective progress without prejudice or political bias.

The general public, members of the Ikire community, political stakeholders, and the media are hereby advised to disregard any claim or publication suggesting that the National Association of Ikire Students (NAIS), National Headquarters, has officially endorsed any politician, political party, or political movement, except where such position is formally communicated through the appropriate and recognized channels of the association.

NAIS remains steadfast in its commitment to responsible leadership, students’ development, community advancement, and the promotion of the collective interests of all Ikire students in a non-partisan manner.

Signed:

Oyelakin Rukayat Folashade 

NAIS National President 2025 Administration.