Members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Abia State University, Uturu, staged a protest on Tuesday to express their frustration over the Federal Government’s refusal to implement the 2009 agreement. The lecturers also called on the Abia State Government to address their welfare concerns, including unpaid allowances and poor working conditions.
Led by the ASUU branch Chairman, Dr. Chidi Mba, the protesters decried the Federal Government’s prioritization of politicians’ welfare over that of lecturers. Mba highlighted the severe impact of Nigeria’s economic challenges on their stagnant salaries, noting that lecturers have remained on the same salary scale for years while politicians and appointees enjoy exponential increases. “It is shocking that the wages of politicians and other appointees have been appreciating exponentially while the earnings of ASUU members remain static,” he said.
Mba warned that the neglect of the university system and Nigeria’s education sector poses a significant threat to the nation’s future. Describing the protest as part of a nationwide ASUU action, he cautioned that a strike could be imminent if their demands are not met. “When we embark on strike, they will not hold us responsible,” Mba declared.
The protesters also appealed to the Abia State Government to address critical issues, including erratic power supply to their offices and the non-payment of Earned Academic Allowances. Some lecturers displayed placards alleging that the state government has failed to pay their salaries for a year.
The demonstration underscores the growing tensions between ASUU and both federal and state governments, with the union signaling readiness to escalate its actions to press for improved welfare and adherence to longstanding agreements.
