Fatshimetrie Press Review – Scandal Breaks Out in Nsukka Zone: Onyibo Eze’s Urgent Appeal
The current scandal rocking the ASUU Nsukka Zone, with the dismissal of 120 academic staff of the Kogi State University (KSU) for engaging in a legitimate strike, raises deep concerns about workers’ rights and university autonomy. The urgent appeal by the UNN ASUU Chairman, Comrade Onyibo Eze, resonates as a cry of distress in the face of gross injustice.
In his poignant statement, Eze stressed that the revocation of appointments for demanding better working conditions and payment of salary arrears is a gross violation of the rights and privileges of lecturers. The fact that the 120 staff members were dismissed without just cause, despite the recommendations of the government visitation committee for their reinstatement, raises questions about the integrity of the decision-making process and the protection of workers’ rights.
Onyibo Eze’s call resonates beyond the boundaries of Kogi State University as it highlights the broader issues of the struggle for university autonomy, academic freedom and dignified working conditions for lecturers. The demand for unpaid academic allowances, adequate funding of the institution and guarantee of academic freedom, among others, shows the commitment of lecturers to uphold academic excellence and the welfare of the university community at large.
The sad reality of the four ASUU members who died due to the psychological and economic consequences of unjustified dismissal sends a wake-up call on the devastating consequences of such arbitrary actions. These deaths underscore the gravity of the situation and the urgent need to restore justice by reinstating the unjustly dismissed members.
By calling on the current governor, Ahmed Ododo, to intervene for the reinstatement of the dismissed staff, Onyibo Eze gives voice to a just cause and demands an end to the injustice plaguing Nsukka Zone. It is time for the authorities to recognise the fundamental rights of workers and ensure a fair and equitable working environment for all members of the university community.
This case has sparked outrage and raises critical questions about the protection of workers’ rights and the responsibility of the authorities to ensure fair treatment for all. It is imperative that the case be brought to light and justice be done to the 120 academic staff who were unjustly dismissed. ASUU, UNN and the entire university community stand in solidarity to demand the immediate reinstatement of the dismissed lecturers and an end to all forms of oppression and injustice within our educational institutions.