Professor Nnamdi Nwaeze, the Abia State University (ABSU) lecturer suspended for his Facebook post about lecturers' poor remuneration, has spoken out for the first time since the suspension. Nwaeze, a professor at the university, had posted on Facebook on Wednesday, August 12, lamenting that keke (tricycle) riders earn better than ABSU professors. By Thursday, August 13, ABSU announced his suspension and set up an investigative panel to examine the matter.
Professor Nwaeze's Reaction to Suspension
Reacting to his suspension on Facebook, Professor Nwaeze wrote: "In life, somebody must pay the price for the liberation of others. Don't sympathize with me; instead, direct your sympathy to the paymasters. Oku gbawa!"
The post, which was shared widely, sparked a debate about the working conditions of academics in Nigerian universities. Nwaeze's comment about keke riders highlighted the disparity between the earnings of university professors and those in the informal transport sector.
Background of the Controversy
The original Facebook post by Nwaeze, made on Wednesday, August 12, criticized the poor remuneration of lecturers. He claimed that keke riders, who operate commercial tricycles in many Nigerian cities, earn more than ABSU professors. This statement drew both support and criticism from the public.
Following the post, ABSU acted swiftly, suspending the professor and announcing an investigative panel. The university did not provide further details about the panel's mandate or timeline.
Implications for Academic Staff
The suspension has raised concerns among academic staff unions and observers about freedom of expression and the treatment of lecturers who speak out on working conditions. Nwaeze's case is seen as a test of how universities handle criticism from their staff.
As of now, the investigative panel has not publicly released any findings. The suspension remains in effect, and Professor Nwaeze has not indicated any further action. His statement suggests he is resolute in his stance, emphasizing the need for someone to pay the price for the liberation of others.
