ASUU stands firm against delay in reconstituting governing councils in Nigerian universities

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has announced its stance against the persistent delay in reinstating or reconstituting Governing Councils in public universities across Nigeria.

The decision was reached during ASUU’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, from May 11 to May 12.

ASUU President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, conveyed the union’s position, emphasizing that the absence of Governing Councils contributes to ongoing illegalities and undermines the autonomy of public universities.

NEC condemned the government’s lack of initiative in resolving outstanding issues, leading to the deterioration of working and living conditions in universities.

The union expressed disappointment over the failure to address issues that prompted the nationwide strike from February to October 2022, resulting in the deaths of academics and the deterioration of many others’ health due to work-related stress and pauperization.

Osodeke urged the administration led by President Bola Tinubu to initiate the review and signing of the Nimi Briggs-led renegotiated draft agreement with ASUU, signalling goodwill towards public universities.

Furthermore, NEC denounced the erosion of university autonomy due to the dissolution of governing councils by the government, leading to irregularities in university administration.

The union urged the government to adhere to university laws and respect the role of governing councils in appointing Vice-Chancellors and managing university finances.

ASUU reiterated its opposition to the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS) and the National Universities Commission’s (NUC) Core Curriculum Minimum Academic Standard (CCMAS), citing them as impediments to academic freedom and quality education.

The union called for a return to quarterly releases of university funds and rejected the imposition of CCMAS, emphasizing the role of university senates in academic matters.

ASUU reiterated its commitment to dialogue with federal and state governments to address long-standing issues affecting the Nigerian University System.