…Demands urgent renegotiation of 2009 agreement as members face continued persecution
By Sodiq Adelakun
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) on Tuesday raised alarms over what it called a coordinated plot by international organisations to destabilise Nigeria’s public university system.
Speaking at the 2024 ASUU Heroes Day in Abuja, ASUU President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, condemned the delay in renegotiating the 2009 agreement between the union and the Federal Government, which remains unresolved despite multiple promises and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs).
“It is disheartening that, after twelve years, we are still pushing for the renegotiation of our 2009 Agreement with the federal government, even after multiple rounds of failed discussions,” Osodeke remarked, expressing his frustration at the government’s continued inaction.
The union leader criticised the Federal Government for its disregard of key agreements, particularly the unresolved salary issues and the non-implementation of the Earned Academic Allowance.
He also pointed out the ongoing enforcement of the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS) in public universities, despite prior assurances from the Federal Executive Council that the policy would be rescinded in higher education institutions.
ASUU also expressed concern over the withholding of salaries for three and a half months, as well as the lack of progress on promotions and arrears owed to members.
Osodeke further highlighted the growing challenges faced by ASUU members at state-run universities, where university staff continue to face repercussions for their union activities.
“The persecution of our members at institutions like Kogi State University, Lagos State University, Ebonyi State University, and Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University for their commitment to protecting public university education is alarming,” Osodeke stated.
Despite these challenges, ASUU reaffirmed its commitment to the advancement of public university education in Nigeria.
In a bid to support academic growth, the union announced the provision of PhD grants worth N500,000 each to selected members from public universities nationwide, a move Osodeke described as an effort to recognise and reward the contributions of academic staff.
ASUU also took time during the event to honor distinguished members who have made lasting contributions to the union and the defense of Nigeria’s public education sector. Notable honorees included Prof. T. Uzodinma Nwala, Prof. Bright Ekuerhare, and Prof. Oye Oyediran, among others.
The union’s ongoing struggle for better conditions in the nation’s public universities remains a critical issue, with no clear resolution in sight.
ASUU has vowed to continue its advocacy for a robust and functional public education system in Nigeria, urging both the government and international bodies to reconsider their positions on the matter.