ASUU ATBU Branch Condemns Former Governor Isa Yuguda's Remarks on University Autonomy and Professors

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) Branch, has expressed shock and dismay over recent public comments made by Malam Isa Yuguda, a former Governor of Bauchi State and current Pro-Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).

In a press release issued today, ASUU strongly criticized remarks made by Yuguda during a public hearing at the National Assembly concerning a Bill to convert ATBU from a technology-based institution to a conventional university.

According to ASUU, Malam Isa Yuguda criminalized any opposition to the Bill, stating that "any person who is against turning the University into a conventional University is a criminal." Furthermore, he reportedly displayed a total disregard for the academic community by exclaiming, "who the hell are Professors for goodness sake!".

ASUU argued that attending a public hearing is a legitimate right of citizens and described the former Chief Executive's reaction as appalling and unfortunate. The Union expressed concern that Yuguda, holding a high position within NOUN, showed contempt for the highest-ranking officials within the university system.

Clarification on College of Medical Sciences Funding

The Union also used the press release to address Yuguda's claims regarding the establishment of the College of Medical Sciences at ATBU. ASUU clarified that the College had commenced operations well before Yuguda's intervention as Governor. They also noted that the former State Specialist Hospital, which was handed over to the Federal Government for the College, was compensated for, and those proceeds were used by Yuguda's administration to develop other areas in the state.

ASUU maintains that Yuguda's claim of personally laboring for the establishment of the College is inaccurate, suggesting his administration benefited from its creation rather than initiating it.

The Union concluded by calling into question Yuguda's competence, integrity, and commitment to nation-building following his public outbursts.