The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) Owerri Zone has staged a rally condemning the illegal dismissal of its members.

The demonstration, which began at 10 am, was prompted by what the union describes as unjust terminations and ongoing victimization of academic staff. ASUU’s statement highlights cases of mistreatment at several institutions, including Kogi State University, Ebonyi State University, Ambrose Alli University Ekpoma, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, and Federal University of Technology Owerri.

ASUU criticized the university administrations and governing councils for their inaction regarding the victimization of staff who advocate for academic integrity. The union reported issues such as wrongful dismissals, suspensions, denial of promotions, and withheld salaries. The statement also expressed frustration over the prolonged legal battle faced by members dismissed from Kogi State University in 2019, citing a perceived injustice in the handling of their cases.

Kogi State University had dismissed several ASUU members, including high-ranking officials, over allegations of mishandling confidential documents. The affected lecturers have contested these allegations, asserting their innocence and challenging the legitimacy of their dismissals.