CurrentReport Blog The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has raised concerns over the growing trend of victimization, intimidation, and harassment of its members across public universities in Nigeria. In a statement signed by ASUU Zonal Coordinator, Professor Abdulkadir Muhammad, the union condemned the actions of university administrations, which it claims have been enabled by the support of Governing Council Chairmen and university Visitors.
Widespread Victimization Across Multiple Universities
According to ASUU, several universities have become notorious for the unjust treatment of academic staff. The statement highlighted institutions such as Kogi State University (KSU), Lagos State University (LASU), and Ebonyi State University (EBSU) as some of the worst offenders. Other universities implicated include Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO), and Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU).
In particular, at Kogi State University, 120 ASUU members have faced dismissal over the past seven years. The dismissals, ASUU claims, were largely due to staff advocating for improved working conditions, better welfare packages, payment of salary backlogs, and adequate university funding.
Legal Setbacks for Victimized Staff
Professor Muhammad revealed that many of the affected lecturers had sought justice through the courts, only to face rulings in favor of the universities. The legal battles have left ASUU members disillusioned, as the union continues to push for a reversal of these unjust actions.
Call for Respect of University Laws and Rights
ASUU is now calling on university administrations, Governing Councils, and Visitors to respect the laws governing universities, particularly the right to freedom of assembly and association. The union insists that the persecution of academic staff not only threatens the well-being of intellectuals and their families but also undermines the quality of education in Nigeria’s public universities.
ASUU’s plea to end victimization comes as the union remains steadfast in its fight for better working conditions and academic freedom, urging all stakeholders to prioritize fairness and justice.
