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The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Abuja zone, has disclosed the tragic loss of several members due to economic hardship, poor remuneration, and unfavorable working conditions. Salahu Muhammed, the 1st zonal coordinator, revealed this information during a press briefing in Abuja on Monday.
Muhammad stated that 46 academics from universities under the Abuja zone, including the University of Abuja, Federal University of Technology, Minna, and others, have passed away. He highlighted the case of Professor Johnson Oyero, an eminent scholar at the Federal University of Technology, Minna, whose demise was attributed to the inability to access quality medical facilities.
Expressing concern over the exodus of Nigerian academics seeking better opportunities abroad, Muhammad emphasized the strain placed on those remaining within the system. He lamented the herculean working conditions, psychological stress, and diseases resulting from these challenges.
Additionally, Salahu Lawal, the 2nd ASUU Abuja Zonal Coordinator, criticized the Federal Government’s handling of salary issues. He condemned the withholding of salaries under the “No Work, No Pay” policy during the eight-month strike in 2022. Despite President Tinubu’s directive to release withheld salaries, some members received only a fraction of their dues, further diminishing morale.
Lawal also criticized the government’s failure to implement the exemption of Federal Universities from the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS), despite assurances from the Minister of Education. He urged swift action on the implementation of salary awards and payment of arrears from January 2023 onwards.
The ASUU representatives called for accountability and urgent measures to address the plight of university academics, emphasizing the need for fair remuneration, improved working conditions, and timely payment of salaries.
