SSANU urges FG to end ‘Divide and Rule’ in university system

2026-02-08 - 16:19

By Chinedu Adonu ENUGU – The leadership of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has called on the Federal Government to abandon its “divide and rule” approach within the university system. Speaking during a Thanksgiving service at Wisely Methodist Church Cathedral in Uwani, Enugu State, SSANU National Vice President for the South East, Comrade Engr. Okey Animba, emphasized that the university system operates as a unified entity and should be treated as such. Animba noted that various unions, including ASUU, NASU, NAT, NLC, and NUJ, are all integral parts of the university system, yet the contributions of SSANU members—responsible for administration, facility maintenance, student services, and day-to-day operations—are often overlooked. He called on the government to recognize the unity of the system and stop implementing divisive strategies. Animba also appealed to divine intervention, expressing faith that the welfare demands of SSANU members, including unpaid allowances and withheld salaries, would be addressed promptly. He further criticized what he described as the government’s focus on the 2027 elections, suggesting that political interests are taking precedence over the welfare of university staff. “Federal Government should take proper care of the university system. We have unpaid allowances and withheld salaries. We know the government has the funds but seems more interested in the 2027 elections,” Animba said. He reiterated that SSANU’s core concern is the welfare of its members and the smooth functioning of universities, emphasizing that the association plays a critical role in ensuring students can graduate and the university system operates effectively.