ASUU protest: Soldiers, policemen take over LASUED gate

By Gabriel Dike

Armed security personnel, including soldiers and policemen, yesterday, took over the main gate of the Lagos State University of Education (LASUED), Ijanikin, over a planned protest by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) LASUED branch.
Daily Sun gathered that the armed security personnel arrived at the gate around 5am. The policemen from Ijanikin Police Station were stationed inside the LASUED gate, while the soldiers (Op Messa) parked outside the gate.
A member of ASUU told Daily Sun that the aborted protest has nothing to do with the university management, but a directive from the National Executive Council (NEC) to all branches. She also confirmed that the union wrote to inform the university management of the planned protest as directed by NEC.
In a statement after the congress and signed by the branch of ASUU-LASUED, Akolade Lapite said the meeting took a far reaching decision on numerous internal demands. Lapite said it is the duty of ASUU to ensure that justice and fairness prevail in the system, and that members enjoy good welfare packages. The statement added: “We gather here (congress) in unity and determination to address critical issues that affect the welfare and rights of our members at LASUED.”
Among the internal demands agitating members include non payment of 72 months arrears on hazard and transport allowance for the past six years put at N1.2 billion, un-remitted pension arrears, despite members performing their duties under challenging conditions without receiving hazard and transport allowances. Other demands are the right placement of lecturer 11, reversal on promotion of lecturer 11, inter-campus shuttles and incremental steps payment.
The union warned that it is imperative these issues are resolved promptly to restore confidence and ensure the continued dedication of members as well as encourage them on the forthcoming mock and real accreditation exercise.

“We trust that the Lagos State Government and the university management will give these matters the attention they deserve and take decisive actions to alleviate the hardship faced by our members. Today, we stand united not just for ourselves, but for the integrity and future of education in Lagos State. We call upon the government and the university management to act swiftly and decisively in addressing these issues,” he stated.
The union insists ASUU-LASUED members deserve fair treatment, respect, and the fulfillment of their rightful entitlements, adding, “we will not rest until justice prevails and our university community thrives once again.”