The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Southwest Zone D, has called for restraint following the alleged assault and arrest of students of the Federal Polytechnic, Ede, while commending the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 11, AIG Bassey S. Ewah, for his prompt intervention.

The association disclosed that the police leadership had assured it that the affected students would be treated fairly and that those found to have been wrongfully arrested would be released immediately.

The assurance was received during engagements between NANS Southwest and the leadership of Zone 11 Headquarters, Osogbo, following concerns raised over a viral video allegedly showing the assault and arrest of the students.

In a statement issued on November 4, 2026, the association said the officers allegedly involved had been identified and that a comprehensive investigation into their conduct had commenced.

It described the response of the AIG as a positive indication of responsible leadership, particularly his willingness to listen to concerns and act promptly on matters affecting students and the wider public.

The association also endorsed the public position of Zone 11 Headquarters that the Nigeria Police Force would not condone brutality, intimidation or abuse of power. It said the assurance that officers found culpable would face disciplinary measures was necessary to reinforce accountability and public confidence.

However, NANS Southwest stressed that its earlier statement on the incident should not be interpreted as a personal attack on AIG Ewah or an indictment of his leadership. It said the statement was issued because the safety and whereabouts of the affected students had not been formally established at the time.

The association maintained that allegations against individual officers should be investigated on their merits rather than automatically attributed to the entire police leadership.

It urged the Zone 11 command to ensure that the investigation is transparent and that all relevant evidence, including seized devices and recordings, is preserved. It further called for appropriate disciplinary action where allegations of misconduct are established.

The association appealed to students of the Federal Polytechnic, Ede, student leaders across Osun State and members of the public to remain peaceful and refrain from actions that could undermine the ongoing intervention.

It also issued an advisory to students on maintaining safety and protecting their rights during encounters with law enforcement officers. It warned against physical confrontation or violent resistance, particularly when dealing with armed officers, noting that such conduct could expose students to avoidable danger.

Students were advised to remain calm, comply with lawful instructions and seek clarification regarding the reason for their arrest, the identity of the officers involved and the police station to which they are being taken. They were also encouraged to notify their families, legal representatives and recognised student leadership promptly.

NANS Southwest emphasised that students should have access to legal representation before making or signing statements and should insist on humane treatment and due process. It added that cooperation with the police does not amount to surrendering constitutional rights.

The association also urged police personnel to exercise professionalism, explaining that requests for identification and legal representation should not automatically be regarded as obstruction.

Coordinator of NANS Southwest Zone D, Comrade Adeyemo Josiah Kayode, said the association would continue to follow up on the matter until the affected students are safely released and the investigation is concluded.

He commended AIG Ewah for his intervention and called on all parties to allow the process to proceed without unnecessary tension.