The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) on Tuesday shut down both campuses of the University of Uyo (UNIUYO) in Akwa Ibom State, suspending all ongoing and scheduled examinations. The action is part of a nationwide protest against the Federal Government’s alleged neglect and failure to implement key agreements with the union, including the long-delayed renegotiation of the 2009 agreement.
Lecturers gathered in large numbers at the university’s Town Campus, Annex, and Ikpa Road locations, carrying placards with messages such as: “Our salaries are too poor,” “Pay us sustainable living wages,” “Treat lecturers with dignity,” “We are FG lecturers, not borrowers,” and “Sign and implement the renegotiated agreement.”
Speaking at the main campus, Prof. Opeyemi Olajide, Chairperson of ASUU UNIUYO, decried the stagnant salaries of university lecturers, which have remained unchanged for over 16 years despite worsening economic conditions.
“Today, university lecturers are protesting to show the world the level of disregard the Federal Government has for us. It appears they want to destroy the public university system, just as they did with public primary and secondary education,” Olajide said.
He criticized the government for withholding salaries for three and a half months, despite lecturers having fulfilled their duties, and highlighted the lack of infrastructure funding in federal universities.
“Look at where students are expected to take their exams—does this reflect a serious commitment to education?” he asked, before directing students who had arrived for their Computer-Based Tests (CBTs) to return home.
“There will be no exams today. Go home!” he announced, warning that the union may consider an indefinite strike if their demands continue to be ignored.
Also speaking, Dr. Nwachukwu Anyim, former Chairperson of the ASUU UNIUYO branch, condemned the disparity in government priorities.
“How can lecturers earn the same salary for over 15 years, while the government considers increasing the already bloated salaries of political office holders? That’s the height of injustice,” he said.
ASUU has vowed to continue its protest until meaningful steps are taken by the Federal Government to address their grievances.
