NANS Criticizes ASUU Leadership Under Osodeke, Warns Of Waning Support

NANS Criticizes ASUU Leadership Under Osodeke, Warns Of Waning Support

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has expressed discontent with the leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) under Professor Emmanuel Osodeke, asserting that the union is losing its vigor and public support.

NANS called on the ASUU National Executive Council (NEC) led by Osodeke to rectify its course, as it claimed that ASUU has veered off track and is no longer enjoying the endorsement of students and Nigerians in general.

Read Also EFCC Clarifies: Administrative Bail Comes Free

In a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday, NANS Vice President Comrade Ezenagu Victor voiced concern over reported cases of lecturers at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike allegedly extorting money from students for various purposes, including checking results, exchanging cash for grades, and engaging in sexual exploitation.

The student body verified these allegations and expressed disappointment that despite Osodeke’s connection to the university, no significant action has been taken to address the situation.

Ezenagu Victor cited recent turmoil at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) where ASUU’s involvement prompted demands for the Vice Chancellor’s resignation based on unfounded claims.

These incidents, combined with the prolonged ASUU strike, have contributed to the erosion of ASUU’s public goodwill and sympathy.

Read Also Customs Seizes 299 Cartons Of Codeine, Issues Warning Against Drug Abuse

The NANS Vice President cautioned against the practice of lawyers simultaneously acting as “surety” and legal representatives for suspects, highlighting its potential negative consequences for both the lawyers and the suspects involved. Victor warned that if current circumstances persist at Osodeke’s institution, NANS may declare him “persona non grata.”

The statement reflected that ASUU’s reputation has suffered a decline under Osodeke’s leadership, in stark contrast to the union’s prominent past.

The statement emphasized ASUU’s historical role in confronting government policies, such as resisting the Shagari administration’s encroachment on university autonomy and aiding the medical and resident doctors’ associations in their stand against the Buhari-Idiagbon government.

However, the statement criticized Osodeke’s tenure, particularly the handling of an eight-month ASUU strike that led members to endure financial hardship.

It noted Osodeke’s divisive language and alleged political bias on air, which were deemed detrimental to the union’s cause.

Read Also Police Commission Approves Deployment Of New CPs For 11 States, FCT (FULL LIST)

The statement also accused ASUU leadership of engaging in political vendettas and intimidation, leading to a decline in public support.

NANS urged ASUU to return to its principled approach and restore unity within the union, appealing for better welfare conditions for its members and a diplomatic resolution to disputes, in contrast to the current approach that is eroding ASUU’s standing.