The University of Benin(Uniben) Chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has waded into the brouhaha between the leadership of the institution’s Students Union Government (SUG) and Barrister Olumide Akpata, the standard bearer of the Labour Party(LP) in the forthcoming governorship poll in Edo State.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Ray N. Chikogu and Secretary, Success O. Abusomwan, the Union condemned “in very strong terms, the rebellious and terrorising acts of brigandage being carried out by our students both as individuals and under the cover of student unionism in their entirety.
“The affront and impunity exhibited by the group of persons led by the Students Union President on the 12th of April 2024 is unacceptable, and we call on the University Administration to institute a thorough probe in this regard.
“All the identified students, including members of the executive committee of the Students Union of the University of Benin, who participated in the event(s) that led to the attempted murder of our colleague should be taken through the disciplinary process and sanctioned as appropriate.
“All other identified culpable individuals, whoever and wherever they are, must be made to face the full wrath of the law.
“Finally, we must reiterate the point that, subject to the authorization of the Principal Officers of our Union, our members may not be available to resume academic activities on the 28th of April 2024 if immediate action and the necessary processes are not immediately initiated regarding the demands made above.”
