ASUU-TSU links death of three lecturers to Taraba govt’s neglect

The leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Universities at Taraba State University (ASUU-TSU) has attributed the recent demise of three lecturers to alleged neglect by the Taraba State government in addressing the union’s welfare concerns.

In a statement shared on his Facebook page, the chairman of ASUU-TSU, Dr. Mbave Joshua Garba, lamented the state of welfare for members of the institution.

“The plight of ASUU-TSU members has reached a heartbreaking and unbearable level. We endure the pain of a nonexistent pension scheme, the denial of Earned Academic Allowances, unresolved salary backlogs, and the neglect of other essential welfare packages,” he wrote.

According to him, the losses underscore the devastating consequences of the government’s alleged indifference.

“These were individuals who dedicated their lives to education and the intellectual development of our society. Now, in the midst of our collective struggle, we are left to wonder—who will be next? Is this the future we deserve?” he stated.

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The union, as made known by him, is demanding immediate intervention to address its longstanding grievances and improve the welfare of its members.

“The sacrifices of our fallen colleagues must not be in vain. Enough is enough!” he emphasized.

Noting that the deaths have cast a pall over Taraba State University, sparking calls for the government and other stakeholders to take decisive action, he expressed hope that the tragedy would serve as a catalyst for addressing the systemic neglect affecting its members.

“This incident adds to the growing pressure on the state government to act swiftly in resolving the union’s demands and ensuring the welfare of academic staff at the institution,” he stated.

Professor Akporido Samuel, Dr. Kiliobas Sha’a, and Mallam Ibrahim Saleh Bali were alleged to have passed away within 48 hours due to the state government’s failure to address the numerous demands of the institution, which The Guardian observed have been lingering for several years.