Ohanaeze Ndigbo has called on various associations of Nigerian students to shelve their proposed 4th of February protest against the Minister of Works, David Umahi, and instead pursue constructive engagement that would promote national growth and development.
The appeal was specifically directed at the leadership of the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS), the National Association of Nigerian Colleges of Education Students (NANCES), and the National Association of Nigerian University Students (NAUS).
The position of the organisation was conveyed in a statement issued on Friday, the 30th of January, 2026, by the factional Deputy President-General of Ohanaeze, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, alongside the group’s National Spokesperson, Chinyereze Ohia. The statement was made available to journalists.
Ohanaeze warned the student bodies against allowing themselves to be used as political tools by opponents of President Bola Tinubu, describing the call as a firm and unequivocal caution.
The pan-Igbo organisation argued that the planned demonstrations were part of broader political manoeuvres intended to undermine the credibility of the Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, under the guise of concerns about the state of federal roads.
According to Ohanaeze, “reports of poor road conditions must be contextualized; the roads in question are not neglected but are, in fact, actively undergoing construction as part of the government’s robust development agenda.”
The group further highlighted several major infrastructure projects currently in progress across the country.
“For illustrative clarity, let us shed light on key projects currently underway. The Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, of paramount importance to Ndigbo and Nigerians, is on track for completion by April 2026, as verified by the Minister of Works.
READ ALSO: Ohanaeze Canada Urges Mass Igbo Voter Registration
“Additionally, the notorious East-West Expressway sat dormant for eight long years, a victim of neglect until President Tinubu’s administration designated Umahi to revitalize and prioritize it. This strategic decision has rekindled interest in its completion, a progress that Minister Umahi is personally monitoring.
“Likewise, the Abuja-Lokoja-Okene Expressway remains a focal point for the Ministry, and significant efforts are being expended to ensure its timely and quality completion.
“Your academic pursuits and integrity ought to transcend the transient allure of politically motivated protests aimed at tarnishing the reputation of a Minister who has consistently demonstrated exemplary performance.”
Ohanaeze Ndigbo therefore urged the student organisations to reflect on the true essence of Aluta and adopt dialogue and engagement rather than what it described as sponsored protests.