ASUU Criticizes Government Over Lack of Governing Councils in Universities, Calls for Action

ASUU Criticizes Government Over Lack of Governing Councils in Universities, Calls for Action

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has expressed deep concerns over the government's failure to reinstate or reconstitute governing councils in public universities. This issue, ASUU claims, is causing a series of illegalities and undermining the autonomy of higher education institutions in Nigeria. The criticism was made clear during ASUU's National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, held at the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife, Osun State, between May 11 and May 12.

Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, the union's president, stated firmly that the NEC had meticulously reviewed the status of ASUU's ongoing engagements with both federal and state governments. The primary goal of these engagements has been to reposition Nigeria’s public universities to ensure they can compete globally. However, the union has noted a recurring issue - the apparent refusal or delay by both federal and state governments to address key unresolved matters. Among these critical issues is the renegotiation of the FGN/ASUU 2009 agreement.

At the heart of this disagreement is the need for a timely reconstitution of university governing councils. According to ASUU, the absence of these councils has paved the way for numerous illegal practices, seriously compromising the autonomy of public universities. This erosion of autonomy is something the union cannot stand by idly and watch. The failure to reinstate these councils undermines the governance structure fundamental to the smooth operation of universities.

Besides the governance concerns, ASUU has also criticized the governments for not addressing the grim living and working conditions that Nigerian university staff and students are subject to. Failed promises and unfulfilled commitments have brought the university system to its knees, exemplified by the prolonged strike that paralyzed academic activities nationwide from February to October 2022. This strike was born out of frustration with the government's failure to meet the union's demands.

The union insists that the federal and state governments must immediately set the wheels in motion to review and sign the Nimi Briggs-led renegotiated draft agreement. This step, ASUU believes, would demonstrate the government's goodwill and commitment to improving the state of public universities. The draft agreement includes critical points that if acted upon, could significantly enhance the efficiency and competitiveness of these institutions.

Delayed actions by the government have not only affected the operational integrity of universities but have also left many issues festering. Public universities are experiencing a significant academic and administrative decay, as sustainable solutions are continuously postponed. The call for reconstitution of governing councils isn’t merely bureaucratic; it’s a necessary step towards restoring order and meeting global standards.

Osodeke's remarks highlighted the lingering dissatisfaction within the union. The NEC's unanimous decision to proclaim their discontent underscores the urgency of the matter. They acknowledged the government's tendencies to engage in dialogue but have emphasized that words without actions are futile. There’s a need for concrete steps that reflect real intent to address the multitude of problems plaguing the universities.

The academic staff have pointed out various adverse effects the lack of governing councils has had on university operations. This includes a decline in transparent decision-making and academic independence, as well as issues in financial management, all of which are integral for a healthy academic environment. The absence of these councils weakens the universities’ overall capacity to govern themselves effectively, leading to numerous operational inefficiencies.

Furthermore, ASUU’s concerns go beyond internal university governance. The union has also highlighted the broader socio-economic environment that affects education. Rising inflation, insufficient funding, and poor infrastructure further exacerbate the difficulties faced by public universities. These factors collectively contribute to a declining standard of education, which in turn affects the nation's progress.

The union emphatically rejected the status quo and warned that failure to act by the government would force them to take decisive action. This could mean another round of strikes or other forms of industrial action. The union gave the federal and state governments a two-week ultimatum to show tangible progress towards resolving the highlighted issues. If not, ASUU plans to reconvene and decide on more severe responses to push for the changes they seek.

As the wait continues, university staff and students remain in a limbo state, hoping that the government will act swiftly. It is a critical time for Nigeria's educational sector, and timely intervention could potentially avert further disruption of academic activities. ASUU's steadfast stance highlights the crucial need for immediate government response to secure the future of public university education in Nigeria.