30 PhD Holders Resign from State University Over Poor Pay, Mismanagement

No fewer than 30 PhD holders have resigned from Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU), Bauchi State, citing poor pay and widespread mismanagement. The resignations underscore the deepening crisis at the state-owned institution, as faculty members continue to grapple with inadequate welfare and the absence of key benefits.

Speaking at the university’s Yuli Campus, Namo Timothy, the Zonal Coordinator of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Bauchi Zone, expressed alarm over the situation, warning that the university is on the brink of collapse. He called on the Bauchi State government to declare a state of emergency to address the urgent issues facing the institution.

Timothy revealed that SAZU staff are owed over ₦650 million in Earned Academic Allowances and Excess Workload Allowances, some dating as far back as 2012. He also criticized the lack of pension and death benefit schemes for staff, a violation of public service regulations in Nigeria. Despite numerous engagements with stakeholders, there has been no resolution to these long-standing concerns.

One of the key issues highlighted was the controversial appointment of a Higher National Diploma (HND) holder as the university’s bursar, which violates the institution’s regulations requiring at least a first degree for the position. This decision, Timothy said, has further demoralized the workforce, prompting many, including the 30 PhD holders, to seek better opportunities elsewhere.

He further warned that the ASUU Bauchi Zone might be unable to maintain industrial peace if urgent steps are not taken to resolve the growing discontent between university staff and the administration.

The zonal coordinator urged the state government to implement a comprehensive exit policy that includes pension and death benefits, which are currently lacking. Without these measures, Timothy fears the exodus of highly qualified staff will continue, further jeopardizing the university’s future.