The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has called for an immediate halt to the persecution and victimisation of its members, particularly in the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), over their opposition to the controversial promotion of Dr. Isa Pantami to the rank of professor. The union has also raised concerns about similar issues at other institutions.
KEY POINTS OF THE DEMAND:
- Victimisation in FUTO and Other Institutions: ASUU has condemned the harassment of members at FUTO who opposed Pantami’s promotion. They have highlighted similar victimisation at institutions like Lagos State University (LASU), Ambrose Alli University (AAU), and Ebonyi State University (EBSU).
- Withholding of Salaries: The union expressed frustration over the withholding of salaries for its members across various universities. This has led to undue hardship and is seen as a retaliatory measure against those who have challenged anomalies and breaches of due process.
- Legal and Administrative Challenges: ASUU criticized the delay in legal proceedings related to the wrongful sacking of members, particularly at Kogi State University. They also condemned actions such as the locking of union offices at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU) and the suspension of members at EBSU.
- Call for Intervention: The union has urged visitors and stakeholders of the affected universities to intervene and resolve the issues, emphasizing that these actions undermine academic standards and worker rights.
ASUU’s Stance: ASUU has voiced strong disapproval of the ongoing persecution and intimidation of its members, calling for immediate action to address these injustices. They have also expressed solidarity with their members who are enduring these challenges, framing the struggle as a collective issue impacting the entire union.
Related Actions: The union has previously condemned similar actions and demanded the reinstatement of dismissed lecturers, calling for a fair and just resolution to these ongoing disputes.