The National Association of Nigerian Students has called on the Federal Government and the National Assembly to collaborate in solving the Rivers State Assembly crisis to protect the country's democracy.
The president of the association, Mr. Yinka Gbadebo, in a statement said the crisis if not properly resolved, was dangerous for the country's democracy.
He advised the National Assembly to be transparent and avoid playing politics with the crisis.
He said, "We urge gladiators in the Rivers State crisis to sheathe their swords and work towards the attainment of a united and peaceful Nigeria. The events in Rivers State if not curtailed, may derail our democracy. Events in the state have shown that true democratic federalism must substitute the prevailing democratic mirage.
"Although the crisis is a political one, which needs a political answer, innocent masses of Rivers State are grossly affected in any struggle among the ruling elite and this is dangerous for our democracy. President Goodluck Jonathan should act as the father of the nation by calling on actors in the Rivers crisis to come together and find a lasting peace to the problem."
He also, urged the Academic Staff Union of Universities to suspend its strike in the interest of students while it continues negotiation.
He said, "The myriad of problems in the education sector requires all stakeholders to come together and articulate a common demand. A situation where one union shuts the entire education system is not only counterproductive but unhealthy in the face of global competitiveness.
"We urge the lecturers against attempts of keeping students at home longer than necessary as it portends a great danger to their future."
The Punch