Fri Sep 13 04:55:52 UTC 2024: ## ASUU Condemns Victimisation of University Staff, Warns of Industrial Unrest

**Abuja, August 19, 2024** – The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) Abuja Zone has issued a stern warning to the Federal Government and university authorities over the increasing victimisation of its members across the country.

Following a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, ASUU highlighted a disturbing trend of abuse affecting academic staff at several institutions, including Kogi State University, Lagos State University (LASU), Ebonyi State University (EBSU), Ambrose Alli University, Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), and Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU).

Specific issues raised include:

* **Unwarranted dismissals:** At Kogi State University, 120 staff members were dismissed following a strike in 2017, with little progress in legal redress.
* **Salary non-payment:** COOU is accused of withholding salaries and physically harassing union members.
* **Suppression of union activities:** LASU and FUTO have been accused of suppressing union activities, while EBSU’s administration is facing accusations of political interference.
* **Denial of promotions:** FUTO has been criticized for promoting a sitting minister despite controversial circumstances.

ASUU Coordinator Salahu Mohammed Lawal expressed deep concern over these trends, stating that they have reduced university staff to “slaves” instead of “critical stakeholders.” He cautioned that these actions may lead to industrial unrest, urging the government and university authorities to address these concerns promptly.

Lawal called for solidarity from Nigerians, demanding that the government make the Nigerian university system functional and meet the nation’s aspirations. He emphasized that ASUU will continue its fight against the oppression faced by academic staff.

Read More