The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has accused the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, of allegedly attempting to encroach on a portion of the University of Abuja’s 10,000-hectare land.
In a statement issued on Friday, ASUU expressed concern that rather than supporting the growth of tertiary education, the FCT minister appeared focused on acquiring part of the university’s property.
“We are worried because the University of Abuja is located in the FCT. Anyone serious about higher education should be focused on developing it,” the statement read.
“If the minister wants land, he should look in the opposite direction… We appeal to the Senate to intervene and prevail on the minister to leave the university land alone.”
The allegation comes amid an ongoing two-week warning strike by the union, which began on October 13. ASUU’s grievances include the implementation of the 2009 FGN-ASUU agreement, payment of withheld salaries, and sustainable funding for public universities.
However, the Federal Government insists it has met most of ASUU’s demands and remains open to negotiation. It also reiterated its stance on enforcing the no work, no pay policy against striking lecturers.
