The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has raised alarming concerns about the management of Bayero University Kano (BUK), exposing what they describe as serious financial and administrative irregularities that threaten the institution's academic integrity.
Financial Transparency Under Scrutiny
During a press conference at the university's main campus, ASUU's Kano Zone Coordinator, Professor Abdulrauf Shehu, revealed disturbing findings about the university's financial practices. The union has identified what appears to be significant mismanagement of both internally generated revenue and government allocations.
"We have observed with great concern the opaque manner in which the university's finances are being handled," Professor Shehu stated. "There's a complete lack of transparency in how funds are being utilized, which contradicts established financial regulations and proper governance standards."
Questioning the Vice-Chancellor's Credibility
The union has directly challenged the credibility of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sagir Adamu Abbas, particularly regarding his academic leadership. ASUU has raised serious questions about the Vice-Chancellor's publication record in reputable journals, suggesting discrepancies that could undermine his academic standing.
"As academic professionals, we must uphold the highest standards of integrity," Professor Shehu emphasized. "When leadership's academic credentials come into question, it reflects on the entire institution's reputation."
Staff Welfare and Academic Freedom Concerns
Beyond financial matters, ASUU has highlighted several other critical issues affecting the university community:
- Inadequate attention to staff welfare and working conditions
- Erosion of academic freedom and institutional autonomy
- Poor implementation of university statutes and regulations
- Lack of proper consultation with relevant stakeholders
Call for Immediate Intervention
The union has called upon the Federal Government and relevant regulatory bodies to urgently intervene and address the deteriorating situation at Bayero University Kano. ASUU demands:
- Immediate forensic audit of the university's finances
- Proper investigation into the allegations against the Vice-Chancellor
- Restoration of proper governance structures
- Implementation of transparent financial management systems
"We cannot stand by while our public universities are being mismanaged," Professor Shehu declared. "The future of our students and the quality of education in Nigeria are at stake. We demand accountability and proper management of our educational institutions."
The allegations come at a critical time for Nigeria's education sector, highlighting ongoing challenges in university governance and financial management that continue to affect the quality of higher education across the country.
