Dr. Rotimi Olorunisola, the ASUU Chairman for the OAUSTECH chapter, informed reporters on Wednesday in Okitipupa that several lecturers were "unlawfully" terminated by the Governing Councils of Lagos State University (LASU), Kogi State University (KSU), and Ebonyi State University (EBSU).
Olorunisola emphasized that these actions not only breached the necessary procedures for terminating academic staff but also represented an infringement on the autonomy of the academic profession.
He stated that it is unacceptable for dedicated lecturers, who contribute to knowledge advancement, research, and national development, to be treated with such disrespect by their institutions.
Furthermore, he noted that the wrongful dismissals of these lecturers are a blatant attempt to undermine academic freedom and silence those committed to maintaining high educational standards in Nigeria.
He asserted that the governing councils acted in direct violation of established labor laws, university regulations, and the principles of natural justice.
“ASUU will not stand idly by while our members are unlawfully victimised and their rights trampled upon.
“We categorically state that these sackings are illegal, unconstitutional, and a gross abuse of power.
“We demand the immediate reinstatement of all lecturers wrongfully dismissed, and we call on the Federal Government, state authorities, and all stakeholders in the education sector to intervene swiftly to correct this grave injustice,” he said
He stated that ASUU would remain united in their pursuit of justice and steadfast in upholding the rights and dignity of all academic personnel across the nation.
“Failure to rectify this situation will leave ASUU with no option but to escalate our actions in defence of our members’ rights.
“ASUU will not be intimidated or suppressed by illegitimate actions that disregard the rule of law and the collective agreements that govern our institutions,” Olorunisola added.