ASUU Raises New Allegation Against Tinubu’s Govt, Accuses It of “Destroying Nigeria’s Future

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) in the Nsukka Zone has renewed its criticism of the current administration with a strong warning, insisting that ASUU Raises New Allegation Against Tinubu’s Govt, “Destroying Nigeria’s Future” due to the Federal Government’s continued refusal to finalize the renegotiation of the 2009 ASUU–FG agreement. The union maintained that the delay is intentional and dangerous for the country’s long-term development.

During a press briefing held at Benue State University, Makurdi, the Zonal Coordinator, Comrade Christian Opata, described the government’s approach as both “insincere” and “purposefully slow,” stressing that the situation reflects a leadership that does not prioritise education. He noted that the long-standing negotiations have dragged on for years without meaningful progress, even though previous administrations and the current one had pledged to address the concerns of university lecturers.

According to Opata, the Federal Government’s attitude shows that the leaders are not committed to protecting the nation’s future, adding that “the slow pace and purposeful delays” in the renegotiation process have created a climate of uncertainty within the university system. He further stated that such actions, or lack of them, are signs that the authorities are playing down the importance of tertiary education at a time when other countries are making significant investments in their educational sectors.

The coordinator spoke on behalf of eight institutions under the Nsukka Zone, including the University of Nigeria, Nsukka; Benue State University; the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi; Enugu State University of Science and Technology; Kogi State University; Federal University Lokoja; Federal University Wukari; and the Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo. Source: legit.ng

ASUU Accuses FG of Breaking Commitments

Opata reiterated that the union has been involved in discussions with the government for more than a decade and has signed several agreements. However, he said successive administrations have failed to implement these agreements, often using selective compliance and bureaucratic tactics to frustrate the process. He accused officials of “misrepresenting facts,” noting that the government often exaggerates minor actions such as payment of arrears or deductions as major achievements.

He questioned how a government that has repeatedly made commitments could now act like it has forgotten its own promises, stating that “it is either the government has lost its records or is deliberately buying time.”

Union Rejects Proposed Salary Structure

The Zonal Coordinator also revealed that ASUU members collectively rejected the government’s proposed salary review at the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Taraba State. According to him, the offer was far below expectations and “a mere drop in the ocean,” even worse than an earlier proposal rejected in 2022.

He cautioned that the university system could slide into another nationwide disruption if the government fails to conclude the renegotiation within the one-month deadline already communicated to officials. Opata lamented that the earnings of lecturers have become inadequate, stressing that “our take-home can no longer take us home.” He added that even senior academics now struggle to cover basic professional costs such as research publications.

Lack of Willpower, Not Lack of Funds

Opata dismissed claims that the government’s failure to act is due to financial difficulties, arguing that recent FAAC allocations show that revenue has actually increased between 2022 and 2024. He emphasized that the challenge is not economic hardship but a clear “lack of political will,” stressing again that ASUU Raises New Allegation Against Tinubu’s Govt, “Destroying Nigeria’s Future” by refusing to prioritise education.

He warned that without improved welfare and proper funding of universities, the country will continue to witness mass exit of lecturers seeking better opportunities abroad.

Public Urged to Mount Pressure on Government

The union appealed to students, traditional rulers, labour unions, and civil society organisations to join in pressuring the government to honour its promises. ASUU explained that its recent suspension of a warning strike was an act of goodwill after public appeals, but the government has not shown equal commitment since negotiations resumed.

Opata concluded that the persistent neglect of tertiary education amounts to ASUU Raises New Allegation Against Tinubu’s Govt, “Destroying Nigeria’s Future”, adding that the union will continue to push for a lasting and fair solution. He stressed that Nigeria’s educational future must not be left at the mercy of political interests.

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