The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has vehemently denounced the Committee of Federal Rectors (COFER) for what it perceives as unwarranted interference in union matters, stemming from a contentious interpretation of the Trade Union Act. The union’s discontent centers around a directive issued by COFER on April 17, 2025, instructing rectors of federal polytechnics to enforce a disputed interpretation of the 2006 Trade Union Act. ASUP argues that COFER, a non-statutory body, lacks the legal standing to interpret the Act and that its directive undermines the principles of unionism. This directive, according to ASUP, is not only erroneous but also demonstrates a blatant disregard for established responsibilities and boundaries. The union emphasizes that the Trade Union Act has been in effect since 2006, governing all trade unions, including those in universities, polytechnics, and Colleges of Education. COFER’s attempt to reinterpret the Act, ASUP contends, is a blatant overreach of its authority.
Central to ASUP’s argument is the assertion that COFER, a subset of polytechnic heads operating under the umbrella of the Committee of Heads of Federal Polytechnics (COHEAD), lacks the supervisory, regulatory, or legal authority to interpret laws. The union characterizes COFER’s actions as meddlesome and unfounded, emphasizing that polytechnic staff are employees of the federal government and that their consent to union membership was obtained during their enrollment in the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS). This existing consent, ASUP argues, negates the need for any further affirmation of union membership. The union further points out that the rectors involved are themselves federal employees and members of ASUP, a fact that, in ASUP’s view, disqualifies them from dictating union affairs. The demand for fresh written consent from staff, as stipulated in COFER’s directive, is dismissed by ASUP as ludicrous and lacking common sense.
ASUP highlights the inherent contradiction in COFER’s directive, noting that the rectors involved are themselves members of ASUP and, therefore, subject to the same union regulations they are attempting to enforce. This, according to ASUP, creates a conflict of interest and undermines the legitimacy of COFER’s actions. The union underscores the principle that consent to union membership was both explicitly and implicitly granted by staff through their IPPIS enrollment and long-standing union membership. Requiring further written consent, ASUP argues, is not only redundant but also demonstrates a lack of understanding of basic industrial relations principles. The union insists that COFER’s directive is an attempt to weaken ASUP’s influence, particularly in light of the union’s stance against certain unethical practices within the polytechnic sector.
The union’s condemnation of COFER’s directive extends to specific rectors, particularly the Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, whose actions are labeled as a betrayal of the union. Similar criticism is leveled against the rectors of Federal Polytechnics Ekowe, Nekede, and Bida, who are accused of attempting to undermine ASUP’s influence due to the union’s opposition to their alleged unethical practices. This targeted criticism underscores the depth of ASUP’s dissatisfaction with the actions of specific individuals within the polytechnic system. The union contends that these rectors, motivated by self-interest, are attempting to silence ASUP and prevent it from exposing their questionable practices.
ASUP has issued a stern warning that it will resolutely resist any attempts to diminish its role in protecting workers’ rights within the polytechnic sector. The union has vowed to take all necessary measures, including legal and industrial action, to safeguard the rights and welfare of its members. This firm stance underscores ASUP’s commitment to its core mission of advocating for its members and resisting any actions that threaten their well-being. The union’s message is clear: it will not be intimidated or silenced in its pursuit of fair treatment and just working conditions for polytechnic staff.
In its concluding statement, ASUP demands the immediate withdrawal of COFER’s directive and a formal apology. The union asserts its intention to utilize all available legal and industrial means to protect its integrity and membership. This resolute stance underscores ASUP’s commitment to defending its members’ rights and maintaining its position as a strong advocate for polytechnic staff. The demand for an apology further emphasizes the union’s view that COFER’s actions were not only inappropriate but also disrespectful to the union and its members. ASUP’s message is clear: it will not tolerate any infringement on its rights or any attempt to weaken its influence within the polytechnic sector.
