ASUU Criticizes Delay in Reconstituting University Governing Councils

By Milcah Tanimu

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) expressed dissatisfaction with the delay in reconstituting governing councils in universities during its National Executive Council meeting at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State.

In a statement issued by ASUU President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, the union attributed ongoing illegalities and violations of autonomy in public universities to the absence of governing councils.

The NEC also reviewed engagements with federal and state governments to enhance the global competitiveness of Nigeria’s public universities.

ASUU condemned the governments’ apparent reluctance to address outstanding issues, deciding to reconvene after two weeks to take decisive action.

The meeting also addressed deteriorating living and working conditions in universities, with reports indicating the adverse effects on academics’ health.

ASUU urged the government to initiate the renegotiation of the FGN/ASUU 2009 agreement and reinstate governing councils to uphold university autonomy as prescribed by law.

Additionally, the union maintained its stance against the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System and rejected the NUC-imposed Core Curriculum Minimum Academic Standard, advocating for universities’ autonomy in academic matters.