ASUU Decries Widespread Injustice: Reveals 120+ Members Victimization
Raising the alarm over widespread mistreatment of academic staff at Nigerian universities, the Ibadan Zone of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has revealed that over 120 members have been unjustly terminated and others have gone without pay for up to 28 months.
Prof Oyebamiji Oyegoke, Zonal Coordinator of ASUU, painted a grim picture of the situation, describing it as an “onslaught by elements of the Nigerian state in its quest to destroy what is left of Nigerian public universities.”
The Zonal Coordinator further highlighted specific instances of victimization, including unjust dismissals at Kogi State University, withheld salaries at Ambrose Alli University, and unlawful suspensions at Ebonyi State University.
In an appeal to authorities, Oyegoke urged for the immediate reinstatement of members that were unfairly dismissed and called for an end to all forms of victimization against ASUU members.
He emphasized that this “injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere,” underscoring the urgency of addressing these issues to ensure a fair and just environment for academic staff across Nigerian universities.
With the stakes high and the situation growing increasingly dire, the plight of ASUU members has become a rallying cry for the protection of academic freedom and autonomy in Nigerian universities.
As the union continues to push for fair treatment and due process, it remains to be seen whether authorities will heed their call and address the underlying issues at the heart of this crisis.
Amidst the turmoil, the Ibadan Zone of ASUU remains steadfast in its commitment to defend its members’ rights and fight for a better future for Nigerian higher education, as the struggle for justice and fair treatment continues.