ASUP Slams Federal Poly Rectors Over Alleged Misinterpretation of Trade Union Act

The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has accused the Committee of Federal Rectors (COFER) of meddling in union affairs through a deliberate misinterpretation of the Trade Union Act.

According to ASUP, COFER's recent directive asking rectors of federal polytechnics to enforce a disputed interpretation of the Act is wrong and shows disregard for responsibilities and limits.

The union stated that COFER lacks supervisory, regulatory, or legal authority to interpret laws and described their action as meddlesome and baseless. ASUP also condemned the role of rectors of Federal Polytechnics Offa, Ekowe, Nekede, and Bida for allegedly attempting to weaken the union's influence.

The union demanded the immediate withdrawal of COFER's directive and an apology, warning that it would resist any attempt to diminish its role in protecting workers' rights in the polytechnic sector. ASUP vowed to use legal and industrial means to protect its integrity and membership.