NANS Crisis Deepens: Factional President Atiku Isah Remains in DSS Custody Amid Seyi Tinubu Allegations — May Spend Sallah Behind Bars

The atmosphere within Nigeria’s student political scene has grown increasingly tense following the continued detention of Atiku Isah, a factional president of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS). Isah was reportedly arrested by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and, as of now, remains in custody with no confirmed date for his release.

The case, first reported by @SaharaReporters, has sparked national debate, drawing attention to the complex intersection of student activism, political influence, and freedom of expression in Nigeria.

According to sources, Isah’s arrest stems from allegations he made against Seyi Tinubu, son of Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. While the full scope of those allegations remains unclear, reports suggest that Isah either issued a press statement or submitted a petition implicating Seyi in undisclosed misconduct.

Shortly after, he was detained by the DSS—a move many see as a politically motivated clampdown on dissenting voices within the student community.

Close associates of Atiku Isah have expressed concern that he may spend the upcoming Sallah celebrations in detention, a development that has intensified protests and online advocacy from student groups, human rights organizations, and former NANS executives.

NANS has long struggled with factional disputes, often splitting into rival camps. The detention of a key figure like Isah now threatens to deepen internal divisions and further erode the organization’s credibility among Nigerian students.

Activists and concerned stakeholders are calling for:

• His immediate and unconditional release

• Clarity and transparency regarding the allegations

• Access to legal representation and protection of his fundamental rights

The case has triggered powerful reactions online and within academic circles. Many are using the opportunity to highlight broader concerns about freedom of speech and the politicization of security agencies in Nigeria.

“If a student leader can be detained for asking questions, what hope do the rest of us have?”
“This is beyond NANS. It’s about democratic accountability and the right to speak truth to power.”

As of this report, neither the DSS nor Seyi Tinubu’s representatives have issued an official statement. Meanwhile, legal experts and human rights advocates are reportedly preparing to challenge what they describe as unlawful detention, potentially escalating the issue to national and international human rights platforms.