N22.7bn earned allowance: We’ll collapse University system if… — SSANU

By OLAYINKA OLUKOYA, Abeokuta

The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), has urged the Federal Government not to force the union into collapsing the university system, over the proposed sharing formula of the N22.7bn Earned Allowance.

The National Vice President of SSANU, Dr Abdussobur Salaam, disclosed this while addressing newsmen during the Western Zonal Executive Meeting, held at the Federal University of Agriculture (FUNAAB), Abeokuta, that the sharing formula if not properly addressed might cause chaos within the nation’s university system.

Salaam noted that the proposed sharing formula of the about to be released fund was unjust and a platform to cause disaffection on the campuses.

He pointed out that the N22 billion yet to be released was originally meant for SSANU and NASU as agreed upon last February.

“We are only concerned that government should know better that these are not the best of times to cause chaos on our campuses, but a time to strengthen the university system in the efforts to rebuild the Nigerian economy disrupted by the onslaught of the COVID-19 and other global malaise.

“As a union, SSANU wholesomely and vehemently rejects the lopsided sharing formula and will use every legitimate means to sustain its position on this.

“We have directed our member to be vigilant and shall collapse the system at any hint of the payment of the Earned Allowances using the evil formula,” he said.

SSANU also called on the federal government to beef up security in the country, describing the invasion and kidnapping of some people at the University of Abuja, as unfortunate.

Salaam further said, ” FG must beef up its security architecture, and also put in place stringent measures that would ensure the protection of lives and property, as well as allow Nigerians to carry out their daily activities without fear of molestation from any quarters.”

The Union also stressed the need for the government to effect the immediate payment of arrears of the National Minimum Wage without much ado. (Sunday Tribune)