Condemning Unwarranted Attacks: NANS Philippines Zone Stands Strong
…..Says allegations baseless, reaffirms Pharm. Barnabas Ihongo as the only recognized Chairman
Our attention has been drawn to a publication signed by one Mr. Ekoh Godwin, allegedly on behalf of a so-called Stakeholders Council of NANS Philippines Zone, dated 14th May 2025. This publication was initially circulated via a WhatsApp group named after Mr. Ojukwu Leonard and subsequently shared across various platforms, including the NSA Cebu page, NANS Diaspora Congress group, Ohaneze Ndigbo group, and multiple other social media and WhatsApp groups. It was later published on the NewsMirror Media blog on 15th May 2025.
This publication contains baseless, misleading, and defamatory remarks targeting the current and former leadership of the NANS Philippines Zone. Those unjustly attacked include the sitting President – Rev. Comr. Okoye Chikelue C., the Emeritus PRO – Comr. Afuecheta Chidimma, the Financial Secretary – Comr. Dr. Iyinoluwa Deborah Ayedegbe, the Treasurer – Comr. Isa Patience, and other dedicated members of our executive council.
We wish to categorically state that these allegations are unfounded and appear to be driven by a desire to tarnish the reputation and integrity of leaders who have selflessly and transparently served the Nigerian student community in the Philippines. The current leadership remains committed to the values of accountability, transparency, and progress, as demonstrated by the successful hosting of the first-ever NANS Philippines Zone event – an event that has received overwhelming praise and appreciation from the student body.
In the spirit of transparency, the Stakeholders Council (SHC) was formally invited to a briefing to review the financial report of the Zone. However, they refused to attend this meeting, choosing instead to issue false and misleading publications. Had they honored the invitation, they would have had the opportunity to hear detailed accounts of our expenditures. For instance, transportation costs were fully covered for students attending from distant locations, ensuring that no student was left out due to financial constraints.
It is important to note that no student has come forward with grievances regarding the event or financial matters. On the contrary, students expressed joy and satisfaction over the inclusiveness and success of the historic NANS event. This is a clear contrast to the record of the so-called SHC, who, during their time in leadership, failed to present any financial report or meaningfully engage the student body in any activity.
Furthermore, we reaffirm that Pharm. Barnabas Ihongo is the only recognized Chairman of the Stakeholders Council of NANS Philippines Zone, duly appointed by the democratically elected executive council on 28th April 2025. The public is hereby advised to disregard any individuals or groups falsely claiming this position or issuing unauthorized statements.
We call on the general public, particularly Nigerian students in the Philippines, to disregard the said publication and remain focused on unity, progress, and constructive engagement. We urge all stakeholders to embrace the spirit of dialogue and peaceful resolution of concerns, rather than resorting to public defamation or divisive rhetoric.
NANS Philippines Zone remains steadfast in its commitment to truth, responsibility, and collective advancement. We continue to work for the betterment of every Nigerian student in the Philippines and will not be deterred by attempts to distract from our mission.
