The University of Ilorin branch of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has criticized the Nigerian Government for delaying the payment of three and a half months’ worth of salaries owed to university staff.
At a press conference in Ilorin, the union’s chairman, Alex Akanmu, expressed disappointment over the issue.
The union also voiced objections to the government appointing elderly Nigerians to serve on governing councils of tertiary institutions, arguing that it is inappropriate for octogenarians to lead 21st-century development initiatives.
Akanmu emphasized that the composition of these councils reflects an outdated approach, stating, “As academics, our concern is this: we are looking at octogenarians to drive a 21st-century development agenda; can they do it? No! That’s the barbaric and unacceptable level to which this government has taken the country.”
Regarding their unpaid salaries, Akanmu pointed out that the delay undermines the efforts and dedication of teaching staff who consistently fulfill their duties to students and the academic community.
He criticized the government’s stance as oppressive and stressed the union’s demand for the immediate release of their outstanding compensation.
Akanmu also highlighted the union’s frustration with the lack of progress on other demands, including the payment of Earned Academic Allowance (EAA), despite budget allocations and promises made since the 2022 industrial action.
