Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Immediate past National President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Professor Emmanuel Osodeke, has accused former President Muhammadu Buhari of almost collapsing Nigeria’s university education sector, if not for the resilience of the union.
Professor Osodeke made the statement on Monday during a reception in his honour by the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU) chapter of ASUU, in recognition of his meritorious service.
He also accused the former Minister of Labour and Productivity, Senator Chris Ngige, of showing indifference to the welfare of university lecturers.
ASUU, Osodeke said, remains committed to the struggle for university autonomy and improved welfare of its members, vowing not to relent until its demands are fully met.
“The doggedness and fighting spirit of ASUU saved the university education sector from total collapse under Buhari’s administration,” Osodeke said.
“Our struggles have kept our public universities alive and prevented them from going the way of other failed public institutions like the Nigerian Airways and refineries.”
He further stated: “Ngige’s confrontational approach created confusion that almost destroyed the education sector, but ASUU’s resilience made the difference.”
Osodeke decried the mass exodus of lecturers abroad, attributing it to poor welfare and conditions of service. He highlighted the removal of ASUU members from the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) as one of the union’s major achievements under his leadership.
“I’m glad that professors now retire with their full salary,” he added.
Osodeke urged governments at all levels to invest more in public universities, which he described as the backbone of Nigeria’s education system. He insisted that public universities still deliver quality education and cater to about 95% of Nigeria’s student population.
In his remarks, the current ASUU National President, Professor Chris Piwuna, reaffirmed the union’s resolve to continue its fight for university autonomy, better welfare for lecturers, and quality education.
He said ASUU would not back down on its agitations until all demands were addressed.
“Strike is a universal tool; it is not peculiar to Nigeria. It remains on the table, but we hope we won’t have to use it before our demands are met,” Piwuna said.
He praised Osodeke for his dedication and contributions to the union’s cause, pledging to build on his legacy.
Also speaking, ASUU MOUAU Chairman, Professor Chike Ugwuene, lauded Osodeke for defending the interests of lecturers nationwide.
“He gave his best for the welfare of ASUU members and the betterment of Nigeria’s education sector. He also ensured harmony between ASUU and MOUAU management,” he said.
Vice Chancellor of MOUAU, Professor Maduebibisi Ofo Iwe, represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics), Professor Nneoma Obasi, also commended Osodeke’s leadership, describing his tenure as legendary.
She reaffirmed the university’s commitment to maintaining a harmonious relationship with ASUU and other staff members.
The event was well attended by ASUU members from across the country.
