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Tag: ASUP

  • Council lacks power to suspend union activities in institution — ASUP

    The national leadership of the Academic Staff Union Polytechnics (ASUP) says the governing council of Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, Saki in Oyo State lacks the power to suspend activities of the union in the institution.

    This is contained in a statement signed by its Zonal Coordinator, Mr Olawale Omobaorun, and made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ibadan on Friday.

    Recall that the governing council of the institution had in a communique issued on Thursday in Ibadan, suspended the activities of ASUP in the institution.

    The council also directed the striking academic staff of the institution to resume work on Monday, Sept. 10 or risk losing their jobs.

    The ASUP, however, said the council lacks the right or permission to cancel the registration of the union as issued in their communique on Thursday.

    “Our attention has been drawn to the purported suspension of activities of our great union at The Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, Saki, by the governing Council of the Institution on the ground of their legitimate agitation.

    “Our agitation is for better conditions of service for our members, especially the demand for regular payment of 100% salary and payment of backlog of arrears of 11 months.

    “With the greatest of respect to the Council, may we state categorically and unequivocally that the council lacks the right or power to cancel the registration of our great union by suspension at the Institution,” it said.

    The Union stated that the fundamental reason was that ASUP was duly registered pursuant to the trade unions Act.

    It said that existence of the union is not at the behest, command, order, permission or benevolence of any council or management.

    The union said it relied solely on the statute and Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria under which it is duly registered.

    “We hold that the decision of the Council to suspend the activities of the union in the Institution is unconstitutional and illegal.

    “The right of association under section 40 of the constitution, including the right of unionism, can only be taken away only in the ways recognised by the same constitution.

    “We therefore reject the purported suspension of the activities of Academic Staff Union (ASUP) in The Oke-Ogun Polytechnic, Saki.

    “We hope for good understanding and cooperation of the Governing Council and Management of the institution in the interest of better industrial harmony,” ASUP said.

    Recall that activities of Senior Staff Association of Nigeria Polytechnics ( SSANIP ) and Non- Academic Staff Union ( NASU ) both of Ibarapa Polytechnic in Eruwa in the state had also been suspended by their governing council.

    The two unions had in a letter written through their lawyer, Mr Femi Aborisade, to the governing council, also declared the suspension as illegal and unconstitutional.(NAN)

  • ASUP re-elects chairman at Ondo poly

    The Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo (RUGIPO) chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has re-elected Comrade Rafiu Ijawoye as its chairman for a second term of two years.

    Ijawoye was chosen by his colleagues, who described his first tenure as “exemplary”.

    He polled 218 votes, while his closest rival, Comrade Ralph Akinrolabu, got 92 votes in the election supervised by representatives of ASUP national body led by the Zone C coordinator, Comrade Omobaorun Olawale, who is also the ASUP chairman at the Federal Polytechnic, Offa (OFFA POLY) in  Kwara State.

    Ijawoye, in his acceptance speech, vowed not to relent in championing the cause of the association, especially the welfare package of members. He said the union would not stop demanding better welfare from the government and management.

    According to him, members of the union were yet to be paid their nine months salary arrears and allowances, which accrued to a total N430 million naira. He said the union would exert more pressure on the government to pay the arrears. He also lamented non-accreditation of some courses in the school, noting that the union would not fold its arms while facilities in the school depreciate in value.

    The ASUP chair demanded for the immediate release of white paper on visitation panel set up by the Gov. Rotimi Akeredolu after a violent protest by students on January 22, 2018, which led to destruction of school properties and lecturers’ vehicles.

    He appreciated his colleagues voting for him, saying it was an indication of confidence they had in his leadership.

    He said: “On behalf of the newly elected team, I emphasise our commitment to constitutional provisions in discharging our obligations. We shall support all friends and oppose all foes in our attempt to explore all available means of conflict management to ensure that the general welfare of our members and the entire staff of the polytechnic community is given topmost priority.

    “We shall never forget to constantly rely on your advice, support and prayers. Collective decisions of members will be the compass of our administrative navigation in the next two years. As mortals, we believe we are not infallible.

    “We shall, therefore, appreciate your understanding, patience and constructive criticisms at such critical moments to be our guides. This is our pledge of honour to you all in the fulfillment of our electoral promises to you all and your expectations of our administration.”

    Ijawoye extended the hand of fellowship to his opponents, urging them to put the union’s interest above politics. He urged them to join hands with him to move the union forward.

    He said: “We are being magnanimous in victory as we see our election as one in which there is no victors and no vanquish.  There is no winner neither is there a loser. We appeal to those who did not clinch the positions they vied for in the election to display spirit of sportsmanship. We shall be grateful to them all if they would be magnanimous to avail us their brilliant ideas and innovations to raise the bar of excellence in our union.”

    Chairman of the electoral committee, Mr S.V. Omosuli, hailed the union members for their peaceful conduct maturity in the period of the election. He enjoined all members to close ranks and work together for the progress of the union and not to allow division.

    Other elected members include Vice Chairman, Mrs Ilemobayo Olufunmilayo, General Secretary, Adeola Arikawe, Treasurer, Ms Modupe Adeolu, Financial Secretary, Nelson Akinboye, and Internal Auditor, Mr Tolu Babade.

  • Sexual harassment: ASUP calls for investigation in tertiary institutions

    The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics ( ASUP ) on Tuesday urged the management and governing council of tertiary institutions to conduct thorough investigation into cases of sexual harassment.

    Mr Usman Dutse, National President of ASUP, made the plea in an interview with our reporter in Lagos.

    Dutse said that the union would not defend any lecturer caught involved in act of sexual harassment or abuse against their students.

    Commenting on recent incidence of sexual harassment in some universities, ASUP president said that the union had made its stance clear to all members of the union over the disrespectful act.

    ASUP president said that the union was working with the management in various institutions to curtail and punish all those involved in these kinds of activities.

    He said any lecturer involved in sexual harassment has abused the ethical conduct and practice of lecturing in higher institutions and should be made to face the consequences.

    Dutse said: “What we are asking for is adequate investigation and nobody should be punished without thorough investigation.

    “If you punish a suspect without adequate proof and evidences, it is another offence and also a violation.

    “We should avoid victimisation because in some cases, it may be a setup or gang-up.”

    The ASUP president warned lecturers to avoid any unethical practice that could ridicule the profession.

    “This do occur in almost all tertiary institutions, and even, in the basic primary and secondary schools.

    “There are instances where principals, teachers and heads masters in primary schools molest their pupils, talk less of tertiary institutions where there are matured youths.

    “It is an unfortunate incident; as a union, we condemned it in totality, it is a bad behaviour.

    “We always discourage our members from participating in such act and the union will never support any member that is involved in that kind of activities.

    “We have made our position known to our members, because it is unethical for a lecturer to be involved in any sexual abuse or harassment.

    “As a lecturer, you are a teacher, a father, a guardian and a mentor.

    “The relationship of lecturer is not only in the area of academic and mentor, but both spiritual and social; so you need to serve as a father, guide and counsel,” he said.

  • ASUP gives Nasarawa 14 days ultimatum

    The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnic (ASUP), Nasarawa State Polytechnic, Lafia Chapter, has given the state government 14 days notice of strike.

    Mr Paul Usaini, ASUP Chairman of the Polytechnic stated this on Thursday in an interview with Newsmen in Lafia.

    According to him, the 14 days ultimatum followed the expiration of the 21 days ultimatum earlier given to the government in line with labour laws.

    He said that the grievances of the union include; lack of accreditation of all courses at the polytechnic, implementation of four years promotion and annual increments.

    He listed lack of payment of pension and gratuity to retired staff and lack of office accommodation to academic staff among others as other grievances of the union.

    He said that all these issues were tabled before the investigative panel set up by the government for redress.

    He, however lamented the delay in the release of the White Paper report of the committee for implementation.

    “The union believed that the reports will help in addressing issues of lack of accreditation, outstanding promotion arrears and corruption in the system among others,” he added.

    He said that the reports should be released urgently in order to save the institution from total collapse because things were currently in bad shape.

    The union also condemned the appointment of unqualified persons outside the system into the management of the three institutions.

    The union, therefore, advised the state government to follow due process in any subsequent appointments of management staff.

    The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Gov. Umaru Al-Makura had on November 2, 2017 set up three panels to investigate state owned tertiary institutions.

    NAN also reports that the panels submitted their reports to the government on Jan. 19.(

  • ASUP to embark on mechanised farming in Nasarawa

    The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics ( ASUP ), Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa, Nasarawa State, says it will embark on mechanised farming to boost its revenue base and the nation’s food production.

    Dr. Yusuf Husseini, the Chairman of the chapter, said this today in an interview with our reporter.

    Husseini said that the union having a farm would go a long way in improving on its revenue base and also help in enhancing the nation’s food security.

    Read Also: Kadpoly ASUP denies plot to remove Rector

    He disclosed that the union was also planning to devise other ways of showering up its revenue base in order to reduce dependence on the union members’ dues for its activities.

    “We want to have an ASUP farm because we have vast land here. We want to embark on mechanised farming by God grace for our members’ benefit,” he said.

    Husseini urged Nigerians to embrace farming in order to boost food production and grow the country’s economy, adding that no society could live comfortably without agriculture.

    He reiterated his commitment to embarking on projects and programmes that would have direct impact on the lives of the union members and students for the overall development of the institution.

  • ASUP optimistic of resolving lingering issues with FG in 2018

    ASUP optimistic of resolving lingering issues with FG in 2018

    The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics ( ASUP ) says it will intensify efforts to ensure that all lingering issues between the union and the Federal Government are resolved in 2018.

    Mr Usman Dutse, ASUP National President, said on Friday in Lagos that the union would build on the successes recorded in 2017.

    Dutse said the issue of the amendment of Polytechnic Act would be brought to the front burner, while the controversy over HND\B. Sc dichotomy would be resolved completely.

    He said the ongoing negotiation between the union and the federal government would be completed as early as possible in 2018 for onward implementation.

    “There are some major things on the front burner in 2017 and we have already reached an agreement and signed a Memorandum of Settlement and Action with the federal government.

    “Some of the things agreed upon, I believe, will be implemented immediately after the festivities. We hope to build on all our achievements in the new year.

    “Our grievances with government include non-implementation of the NEEDS assessment report, non-passage of the Polytechnics Act Amendment Bill, sorry state of state-owned institutions and shortfalls in personnel cost releases.

    Read also: Breaking: ASUP suspends nationwide strike

    “Others are withdrawal of allowances, non release of CONTISS 15 migration arrears, infractions in the appointment of rectors, and continued victimisation of union officers,“ Dutse said.

    On the 2018 budget, the union leader said the allocation to the education sector was grossly inadequate.

    He urged government to consider implementing the 26 per cent UNESCO recommendation to improve the sector.

    “Sincerely, we have said it severally that what the federal government is giving is grossly inadequate and will not bring the desired change.

    “Already, there are complaints of underfunding and the amount allocated is always changing in spite of the increase in the total budget.

    “We doubt the commitment of the federal government to improve education because we cannot do anything without funds.

    “Education, especially technical and vocational education, is capital intensive but what they are allocating is always shrinking and inadequate,’’ he said.

    Dutse added that the budget was not commensurate with the desired change required in the sector.

    “Government should not expect any exceptional performance with the allocation; with the present economy situation, the budget is just a drop in the mighty ocean.

    “Government should show more commitment; they should attach more priority to education and we will achieve the goal and the actual policy on education.

    NAN

  • ASUP strike shutdown Delta polytechnics

    ASUP strike shutdown Delta polytechnics

    Academic activities at the Delta state polytechnics at Otefe and Ozoro, have been grounded as local unions comply with directive to embark on strike by the national body of the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnic ( ASUP ).

    ASUP Chairman, Delta State Polytechnic, Ozoro, Isoko North local government, Comrade Thomas Ojuye, said his members heeded directives of the National Executive Council of the Union to embark on indefinite strike.

    He disclosed that a communiqué issued at the end of the Chapter Congress, last Monday advised all members to down tools and commended members for complying, even as he vowed that the action would continue until issues raised by the union are addressed.

    Ojuye, who also doubles as the Joint Union Chairman of the State owned polytechnics in Delta state (Ozoro and Otefe-Oghara), said the state owned polytechnics are in full compliance with the National Executives Council directives.

    He listed non-implementation of the NEEDS assessment report, shortfalls in personnel release and withdrawal of allowances, condition of state owned institutions and nonrelease of CONTISS 15 migration arrears as some of the conditions.

    Others include non passage of the amendment bill of the Polytechnics Act, infraction in the appointment of Rectors and continued victimization of union officers.

    Ojuye added that, “the union had vowed to continue the indefinite strike until the Federal Government yield to its demands.”

  • Rufus Giwa Poly lecturers suspend two-month strike

    Rufus Giwa Poly lecturers suspend two-month strike

    The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics, (ASUP), Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo Chapter has suspended its 8 weeks old strike.

    The Union took the decision at the Adekunle Ajasin Auditorium of the institution after an emergency Congress summoned by the executives of the Union after its members had last weekend received one month salary out of its 10 months unpaid remuneration.

    The Polytechnic Management has ordered the resumption of academic activities with immediate effect.

    ASUP called off the strike after due consideration, negotiation and further cementing their demands and the agreement with the management of the institution.

    However,  a reliable source close to the Union who preferred anonymity said the Union may again embark on industrial action if its demands are not met after six weeks of this resumption.

    It was gathered that this is the 3rd time the Union has embarked upon an industrial action in the 2016/2017 Academic Session.

    RUGIPO ASUP had on the 31st of August, 2017 declared total and indefinite strike which was reported to border on the excruciating, debilitating and precarious situation of the welfare of the Academic Staff of the institution as well as the collapsing state of moribund infrastructures in the institution.

    According to ASUP in the Press Release made available after the Congress,” this actions is due to palpably lackadaisical and inept attitude of the management and the insensitivity of the government towards the collective goals and aspirations of this great institution in Ondo State”.

    Campus life gathered that the Union is also agitating for the Payments of  16 months CONPOCASS arrears owed by the management of the Institution effective from July 2009; Payments of 9 months unpaid staff salaries for the months of June  2016 to January 2017 as well as July and August 2017; Payments of 2015 and 2016 promotion arrears.

    Other agitations include compliance with the court order in respect of ASUP members that suffered political persecution from the former administration through non-payment of their outstanding salaries of reinstated academic staff.

    Accreditation of all programmes being offered by the Polytechnic which has due for accreditation and is under the threat of being reaccredited due apparently to deliberate starvation of funds.

    Decaying infrastructures, abandonment of ongoing projects, inadequate lecture rooms, acute shortage of accommodation and non-availability of seats; alienation, meaninglessness, hopelessness and estrangement among the comity of state institutions in Ondo State in the area of monthly subventions and other financial benefits.

  • Rufus Giwa Poly teachers suspend strike

    Rufus Giwa Poly teachers suspend strike

    The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics, (ASUP), Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo Chapter has suspended its 8 weeks old strike.

    The Union took the decision at the Adekunle Ajasin Auditorium of the institution after an emergency Congress summoned by the executives of the Union after its members had last weekend received one month salary out of its 10 months unpaid remuneration.

    The Polytechnic Management has ordered the resumption of academic activities with immediate effect.

    ASUP called off the strike after due consideration, negotiation and further cementing their demands and agreement with the management of the institution.

    Read: Kadpoly ASUP suspends 7 weeks strike

    However, a reliable source close to the Union who preferred anonymity said the Union may again embark on industrial action if it’s demands are not met after six weeks of this resumption.

    It was gathered that this is the 3rd time the Union has embarked upon an industrial action in the 2016/2017 Academic Session.

    RUGIPO ASUP had on the 31st of August, 2017 declared total and indefinite strike which was reported to border on the excruciating, debilitating and precarious situation of the welfare of the academic Staff of the institution as well as the collapsing state of moribund infrastructures in the institution.

    According to ASUP in the Press Release made available after the congress,”this actions is due to palpably lackadaisical and inept attitude of the management and the insensitivity of the government towards the collective goals and aspirations of this great institution in Ondo State”.

    Campus life gathered that the Union is also agitating for the Payments of 16 months CONPOCASS arrears owed by the management of the Institution effective from July 2009; Payments of 9 months unpaid staff salaries for the months of June 2016 to January 2017 as well as July and August 2017; Payments of 2015 and 2016 promotion arrears.

    Other agitations include compliance with court order in respect of ASUP members that suffered political persecution from the former administration through non payment of their outstanding salaries of reinstated academic staff.

    Accreditation of all programmes being offered by the polytechnic which has due for accreditation and are under the threat of being reaccredited due apparently to deliberate starvation of funds.

    Decaying infrastructures, abandonment of ongoing projects, inadequate lecture rooms, acute shortage of accommodation and non availability of seats; alienation, meaninglessness, hopelessness and estrangement among comity of state institutions in Ondo State in the area of monthly subventions and other financial benefits.

  • Kadpoly ASUP suspends 7 weeks strike

    Kadpoly ASUP suspends 7 weeks strike

    Academic Staff Union of Polytechnic (ASUP) in Kaduna Polytechnic (Kadpoly)has suspended its seven weeks old strike.

    The students of the institution were writing their second semester examination when their lecturers decided to down tool.

    Chairman of the union, Dr. Aliyu Ibrahim confirmed the suspension of the strike to newsmen in his office on Tuesday saying that, the suspension followed the resolution of the emergency congress of 17th October, 2017.

    According to him, “following the resolution of the emergency congress of 17th October, 2017, the seven weeks old strike has been suspended.

    Read: LAUTECH: ASUU Suspends Strike

    “Therefore, members are called upon to immediately resume their normal academic activities”.

    He further clarified that, the suspension is for a period of six months after which a congress would be reconvened on 17th April, 2018 to reassess the memorandum of understanding between the management and the union.

    ASUP has opted for industrial action in August this year to press home its demands bothering on improved welfare package and conducive working environment from the management team of the federal Polytechnic.

    Read Also: Kadpoly ASUP begin indefinite strike