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NANS President Alleges Kidnapping by Seyi Tinubu Over Rejected Bribe
A shocking allegation has rocked Nigeria’s political landscape as Comrade Lucky Emonefe, President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), claimed he was kidnapped on the orders of Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, after rejecting a N100 million bribe.
The accusation, made public through a viral video statement on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, has sparked outrage and reignited debates about political intimidation and the influence of Nigeria’s elite. The incident, reportedly occurring in Abuja, has trended heavily on social media, with hashtags like #JusticeForNANS and #SeyiTinubu dominating discussions.
In the video, Emonefe alleged that Seyi Tinubu, who serves as Special Adviser to the President on Student Matters, offered him N100 million to publicly endorse President Tinubu’s administration and suppress student protests against rising living costs and fuel price hikes. Emonefe claimed that after rejecting the bribe, he was abducted by “gun-wielding thugs” on April 15, 2025, beaten, and stripped naked.
He further alleged being forced to record an involuntary resignation statement at the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) studio under duress, with threats to his life. “They told me the IGP can’t do anything, and if I speak out, they’ll remove me permanently,” Emonefe stated, adding that Seyi warned he was “above the law.”
The allegations have been amplified by posts on X, where users like @engr_shaibu_ and @Princeujay expressed alarm, calling for Seyi’s arrest and an investigation. @SaharaReporters reported that Emonefe was brutalized and coerced, citing sources close to NANS, while @BarrTailorson accused NTA’s Managing Director of complicity in the forced recording. Civil society groups, including Amnesty Nigeria and SERAP, have been tagged in posts demanding accountability, with @Dreyclassics highlighting threats to youth leadership and student democracy.
The claims have not been independently verified, and neither Seyi Tinubu nor the Presidency has issued an official response as of May 2, 2025. The Nigerian Police Force and NTA have also remained silent, prompting speculation about institutional complicity. However, a source within NANS, speaking anonymously, confirmed to Vanguard that Emonefe had been “unreachable” for days in mid-April, fueling credibility to his account. The source added that NANS plans to hold a press conference in Abuja on May 3 to address the issue.
This incident follows a pattern of tensions between NANS and the Tinubu administration. In March 2025, students protested the removal of fuel subsidies, which Emonefe publicly criticized, drawing attention to his leadership. Political analyst Dr. Chidi Okeke noted, “If true, this alleged kidnapping reflects a dangerous escalation in silencing dissent, especially among youth. It’s a test for Nigeria’s democratic institutions.” Conversely, a pro-government group, Tinubu Youth Vanguard, dismissed the claims as “fabricated propaganda” to discredit the administration, urging Emonefe to provide evidence.
The allegations have heightened public distrust, particularly among Nigerian students, who see NANS as a critical voice against policies impacting education and welfare. Posts on X, such as @Flame_dab’s call for Seyi and others involved to be questioned, reflect growing demands for transparency. The controversy also coincides with other high-profile incidents, like the reported arrest of activist VeryDarkMan, suggesting a broader clampdown on vocal critics.
As the story unfolds, Nigerians are watching closely for official responses and potential investigations. Emonefe has called for protection and justice, stating, “I speak for Nigerian students, and no amount of intimidation will silence us.” The situation remains volatile, with protests planned by NANS chapters in Lagos and Abuja over the weekend.
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