The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at the Federal University Wukari (FUW) has voiced its rejection of the Federal Government’s new loan program, insisting instead on the immediate settlement of outstanding payments owed to its members. This position was solidified during a protest aimed at highlighting the government’s failure to honor previous agreements.
During the demonstration, Professor Asabe Mercy, the chairperson of the ASUU FUW branch, emphasized that university academics are entitled to fair compensation and improved well-being, not to be saddled with debt. She cautioned the public to hold the government responsible should the university system be disrupted again, affirming that ASUU is prepared to resume its struggle.
She also pointed out that the union is seeking the payment of Earned Academic Allowances (EAA), noting that the recent allocation of ₦50 billion represents less than 10% of the total amount due. The union’s grievances also include inadequate revitalization funds and subpar working conditions.
Adding to these points, former ASUU Chairman, Professor Kidzu Oweh, criticized the poor salaries of lecturers. He questioned how a professor could be expected to live on ₦300,000 monthly, especially when politicians are slated to receive pay raises. Professor Oweh concluded that ASUU will continue its fight until the government fulfills its commitments, stressing that the education sector cannot progress with neglect and insufficient actions.
