The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has asked the Pro-Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Isa Yuguda, to withdraw comments it described as disrespectful to professors and university teachers. The union said the remarks showed “contempt” for academics and could damage the image and independence of the university system.

ASUU leaders said such statements undermine the role of professors, who are responsible for teaching, research, and mentoring students across the country. According to the union, public officers in leadership positions must be careful with their words, especially when they concern the integrity and dignity of academics.

The union therefore demanded that Yuguda should publicly apologise and take responsibility for the comments. It added that if he fails to withdraw the remarks, he should step aside as Pro-Chancellor to protect the reputation of the institution and maintain trust within the academic community.

ASUU also warned that allowing such comments to go unchallenged could encourage disrespect for teachers and weaken higher education in Nigeria. The union said it would continue to defend the rights and dignity of lecturers and professors while engaging authorities to ensure that universities remain places of mutual respect and intellectual freedom.