The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Niger Delta University, Amassoma, Bayelsa State, has called on Nigerians to oppose the Federal Government’s plans to use pension funds for developmental programs. Speaking at a press conference on Friday, ASUU representatives emphasized the importance of safeguarding pension funds, which they described as the life savings of many Nigerians.
The ASUU chairperson highlighted recent statements by the Minister of Finance indicating a desire to access the pension fund beyond the legally permitted five percent. The chairperson urged Nigerians to resist such moves to protect their future financial security.
During a protest, ASUU members carried placards with messages calling for the Federal Government to honor previous agreements regarding the revitalization of public universities. They demanded the implementation of the University Transparency and Accountability Solution (UTAS) in place of the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS), which they argue is unsuitable for universities. The placards also called for improved funding for Niger Delta University from the Bayelsa State Government to address the need for staff offices, lecture halls, laboratories, and student hostels.
The ASUU chairperson outlined several contentious issues, including the illegal dissolution of governing councils, the release of three months of withheld salaries, payment of salaries for staff on sabbatical, and the release of third-party deductions. Other demands include the payment of Earned Academic Allowances (EAA), addressing the proliferation of private universities, implementing reports from visitation panels, adopting UTAS, and renegotiating the 2009 agreement with ASUU.
Regarding the renegotiation of the 2009 agreement, the chairperson noted that no further payments had been made since the initial payment during former President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration. ASUU resolved to increase media and public engagement on the government’s failure to renegotiate the 2009 agreement and hinted at the possibility of a strike.
The union criticized the current negotiators, accusing them of becoming obstacles to the renegotiation process despite their previous promises to prevent strikes.
ASUU also expressed dissatisfaction with Governor Douye Diri’s lack of attention to the developmental needs of Niger Delta University. The union urged the state government to approve the 35/25% wage award, which federal academic staff have already begun receiving, and to increase funding for the university. They called for the construction of staff accommodations, faculty buildings, and laboratories, emphasizing the importance of proper infrastructure for effective teaching and learning.
In conclusion, the ASUU chairperson stressed the urgent need for the state government to invest in the infrastructure of Niger Delta University to improve conditions for both staff and students.
