Controversy Erupts: NAPS Week Cut Short Without Explanation

Editorial: By Vivian Nnagboro 

In a democratic environment, leaders are expected to be accountable as well as communicate effectively to the people but it seems that the executives of the NAPS association skipped the memo. Unfortunately, NAPS executives have decided to disregard our long-term tradition of a NAPS WEEK and then bringing it low to a “NAPS WEEKEND”. with no official press release to explain this course of action. The decision to streamline the week-long festivies of the NAPS week to just two days barely giving NAPSites half of what they normally get came as such a shock to members, especially with the increase in the amount that was paid in basic dues. 

The executives of this prestigious association made a promise to its members and therefore should  not compromise the quality of the week of activities for the sake of convenience. Shortening the week from seven to two days is a shortsighted and irresponsible move that will deprive the students of valuable opportunities to learn, grow, and have fun. However, releasing no explanation to the public gives the opportunity to question the level of responsibility of the executives. 

Fortunately, a member of the executive— The Public Relations Officer— did us the honour of taking this responsibility to speak on this matter unofficially. According to Mr. Toluwani Ojo, the decision to shorten the days was due to riding costs of things in the market. When displeasure about the situation was voiced out, the PRO explicitly stated;“Well In case you haven't noticed, these are very trying times with the economy failing and what not. While it may seem to the untrained eye as a failure, we saw it fit to pick the two biggest events in the week and pour all of the funding into them so we could have two  very good events rather than get 5 mid ones”

This statement is quite disappointing as the PRO would rather publicly throw insults at a NAPSITE with conflicting opinions about the so-called ‘NAPS WEEKEND’. This calls a big question to the level of ability of our executives to deal with criticism professionally as a member of the executive has clearly given NAPSITES a reason to shut up to avoid being called “untrained eyes”. Let's not get started on the inability of the executive to understand that they were elected to serve NAPSITES and they hold every member of the association a respectable level of accountability. YES! We are quite aware of the declining economy, but if the Department with the smallest amount of students —Geography— is planning towards a department week, then the NAPS executive needs to bring their heads out of the sand and put in an effort! 

Where's the level of creativity? Where are the money management skills you spoke of during manifesto night? While NAPSTES who are rudely called ‘untrained eyes’ await a response, we hope for a positive and considerate one.