Anxiety grips Ekiti Varsity workers over plot to sack 500 staff

Workers of Ekiti state University (EKSU), Ado Ekiti, have been thrown into panic over alleged plan by the University authority to sack about 500 staff of the institution.


 According to multiple sources, those to be affected mostly were the staff employed by the immediate past Vice Chancellor, Prof Samuel Oye Bandele during his tenure.


 Some Professors, who were reportedly promoted during that time might be demoted over claim that academic due processes were not strictly adhered to in their elevations.


One of those likely to be affected who craved anonymity, said the new management, headed by Pro- Chancellor and Chairman of Council, Prof Bamitale Omole, had consistently been complaining that overbloated workforce exists in the University and that prompt action must be taken to rectify  it.


The Academics Staff Union of Universities, EKSU chapter, had in September threatened to embark on strike owing to inability to pay their salaries and other benefits.


The ASUU chairman, Dr Kayode Arogundade, disclosed that the monthly wage bill of the University had increased from N380 million to  over N502 million,  while the monthly subvention from government stood at  N260 million, leaving the university to grapple hard to make up for the N262m shortfall  internally.


The source, who was employed as an academic staff said: “yes, it was true, the management will soon issued out sack letters to over 500 staff because of complains that the university was overstaffed.


“We have been notified and anytime from now, the letters of disengagement will be distributed and this has been creating panic and tension in the university “, he said.


It was also gathered that some lecturers, who circumvented academic process to earn their professorial titles and other positions, will be demoted.


 The EKSU’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Bode Olofinmuagun, while debunking the allegation  said the management has  no  plan to sack  or demote any worker.

“There is no tension on campus over sack issue , I am on  campus as I speak with you. The university is peaceful and I am not aware of any such plan”, he said.

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