The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Bauchi Zone, has expressed alarm over the resignation of 30 PhD holders from Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU), formerly Bauchi State University, citing worsening working conditions and inadequate welfare provisions.
At a press conference on Friday, September 27, ASUU officials outlined the significant challenges confronting the institution. Zonal Coordinator Namo Timothy stated that the lack of an employee exit policy has compelled many of the university’s top scholars to seek better opportunities elsewhere.
“SAZU lacks a pension or death benefit scheme, which is standard in structured public service regulations across the country,” Timothy noted, emphasizing that this absence leaves academic staff feeling uncertain about their futures.
The union also criticized the university administration for failing to pay over N650 million in accumulated entitlements, which include earned academic allowances and honorariums for internal examiners. Despite substantial revenue generation from postgraduate programs, ASUU claims that staff have not been compensated for their contributions.
Timothy further expressed frustration over the steep increase in student fees and the lack of commitment to staff development. “The university claims there are no funds to pay our members, yet it continues to impose higher charges on students,” he said, pointing out that undergraduate fees have risen by over 100%.
ASUU also condemned the ongoing tenure of the current Pro-Chancellor, who has held the position since the university’s inception. The union called for adherence to established laws governing appointments to ensure accountability and promote progressive policies within the institution.
In light of these challenges, ASUU is urging the Bauchi State Government and stakeholders to urgently address staff welfare, including the implementation of a comprehensive exit policy and the payment of overdue allowances.
“Unless these issues are resolved, we cannot ensure industrial harmony within SAZU,” Timothy warned. He called on the state government to declare a state of emergency at the university to address these concerns and protect the future of both staff and the institution.