30 PhD Holders Resign from Sa’adu Zungur University in Bauchi Due to Poor Pay—ASUU

In a significant development, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has announced that at least 30 members have resigned from Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU) in Bauchi State due to inadequate remuneration and unfavorable working conditions. This alarming news was revealed by the Zonal Coordinator of ASUU Bauchi Zone, Namo Timothy, during a press conference held at the Yuli Campus of the university on Friday.

Timothy emphasized that SAZU, a state-owned institution, is in a precarious state due to mismanagement and neglect regarding the welfare of its staff. He urged the Bauchi State government to declare a state of emergency at the university to address the long-standing issues affecting its operation and to foster an environment conducive to academic excellence.

“Until and unless this is done, the ASUU branch zone can no longer guarantee industrial harmony between the members of the ASUU SAZU branch and the university administration,” Timothy stated. He pointed out that despite several attempts to engage key stakeholders and initiate dialogue, little progress has been made to resolve the ongoing challenges.

One major concern highlighted by Timothy is the absence of pension and death benefit schemes for ASUU members at SAZU, a stark contrast to the structured public service regulations in place across the country. He revealed that the university administration owes its staff over 650 million naira in Earned Academic Allowance and Excess Work Load Allowance dating back to 2012.

Additionally, Timothy criticized the appointment of a Higher National Diploma (HND) graduate as the Bursar of the university, a move he described as a violation of the university’s regulations, which stipulate that only candidates with at least a first degree are eligible for such positions. This decision has not only demoralized the faculty but has also prompted many, including the 30 PhD holders, to seek employment at other institutions that offer better prospects.

Timothy concluded by calling for the Bauchi State government and the university administration to implement a comprehensive exit policy that includes pension and death benefits for staff, urging immediate action to restore stability and confidence within the university community.

This situation underscores the critical need for improved governance and financial management in Nigerian universities, particularly in state-owned institutions like Sa’adu Zungur University, to retain qualified academic personnel and ensure quality education for students.