In a recent press conference in Ilorin, the University of Ilorin branch of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) expressed disappointment with the federal government’s delay in paying three and a half months of withheld salaries to university staff. The union’s chairman, Alex Akanmu, highlighted their frustration, emphasizing that the delayed payments undermine the dedication of academic staff.

Akanmu also criticized the federal government for appointing elderly individuals to governing councils of tertiary institutions. He argued that octogenarians are unfit to drive the development agenda of the 21st century, describing the appointments as unacceptable.

Furthermore, Akanmu condemned what he referred to as the government’s “slave-master attitude” towards academic staff, noting that the unjustifiable delay in salary payments reflects a disregard for their contributions amidst economic challenges.

The ASUU leader pointed out that despite being included in the 2023 Budget, the payment of Earned Academic Allowance (EAA) remains unresolved. He criticized the government’s lack of action, highlighting the continued financial strain on academic staff since the 2022 industrial action.