How ASUU Fought and Won Against Government – Osodeke

Former President of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, has said the union’s battles under his leadership prevented Nigeria’s public universities from collapsing.

Speaking at an event in Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Osodeke recalled the stormy years of confrontation with former President Muhammadu Buhari’s government and ex–Labour Minister Chris Ngige, describing Ngige’s approach as one that “created confusion” and worsened the plight of lecturers.

He said the neglect of academics drove many abroad. However, he insisted ASUU’s struggles achieved critical gains, including securing the exit of universities from the federal IPPIS payroll system and ensuring professors retire with full benefits. “Our struggles kept universities alive when other public institutions like Nigerian Airways and the refineries failed,” he declared. Osodeke defended strikes as a “universal tool” for workers, though he expressed hope future negotiations would avert them.

The Vice Chancellor of MOUAU, Prof. Maduebibisi Iwe, represented by his deputy, praised Osodeke’s “sleepless nights of negotiation.” Branch chairperson Dr Chike Ugwuene added that his leadership had brought pride to the institution and strengthened cooperation between ASUU and management.