The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Ambrose Alli University (AAU) has expressed its commendation for Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo’s recent decision to reinstate university staff who were wrongfully dismissed under the administration of former Governor Godwin Obaseki. This reinstatement follows an announcement made by Umar Ikhilor, the Secretary to the State Government, which emphasized the governor’s commitment to justice and adherence to the rule of law. The statement highlighted that the affected staff members, who were part of the university’s ASUU chapter, had faced unjust termination after campaigning for overdue salaries and entitlements. The governor’s actions serve as a corrective measure promoting fairness and accountability within the state’s educational institutions.
In the context of the staff’s unlawful disengagement, the governor’s decision is viewed as a significant reaffirmation of the rights of workers and a demonstration of his belief in natural justice. The Secretary underscored that these reinstatements were part of Governor Okpebholo’s broader initiative to address past grievances and emphasize the importance of ethical governance. This response to prior injustices illustrates the current administration’s dedication to resolving outstanding issues related to staff welfare in the education sector, which is crucial for fostering a conducive academic environment at AAU.
Dr. Cyril Onogbosele, the Chairman of the AAU ASUU chapter, articulated the union’s satisfaction with the governor’s decision, framing it as a victory for justice. He noted that the reinstatement indicated a validation of the grievances raised by the affected staff members, who were dismissed without proper adherence to institutional protocols. Onogbosele expressed contentment regarding the state government’s acknowledgment of these injustices, indicating that the action signifies a pivotal shift towards ensuring adherence to due process within the university system. This development is anticipated to bolster trust between the university’s administration and its staff, creating a more equitable professional landscape.
The collective sentiment among the members of ASUU at AAU is one of happiness and appreciation directed towards Governor Okpebholo. The union recognizes that the reinstatement aligns with their advocacy for fairness and accountability in the handling of staff affairs. The governor’s decision not only restores the affected staff’s positions but also sends a broader message regarding the current administration’s commitment to uphold principles of justice and proper governance. Onogbosele emphasized that this move by the government serves as a positive precedent for future engagements between the state government and university staff.
Moreover, the response of the union indicates that the reinstatement could potentially lead to the withdrawal of their ongoing legal case regarding the dismissals. Previously, ASUU had resorted to legal avenues after the prior administration failed to fulfill agreements made during a stakeholders’ meeting aimed at addressing staff grievances. Now, with the new developments, Onogbosele hinted at the possibility of rescinding legal actions, pending discussions between the union’s counsel and the university’s authorities. This potential shift reflects a hope for collaborative resolution and improved relations following the reconciling action taken by the governor.
In conclusion, the decision by Governor Okpebholo to reinstate unlawfully dismissed staff at Ambrose Alli University is viewed as a landmark action promoting justice and accountability within the educational sector. It highlights a commitment to addressing past wrongs while fostering an environment conducive to fairness in academic governance. The positive reaction from ASUU signifies a hopeful transition towards stronger institutional integrity and cooperation amongst university staff and administration, paving the way for a more just framework to address future grievances efficiently. This reinforcement of ethical standards may also enhance the morale of university staff, thereby contributing to the overall enhancement of the academic environment at Ambrose Alli University.
