The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has barred its officials from using the union’s name or platform to endorse political candidates or parties ahead of the 2027 general elections, declaring that it will maintain a neutral position.
ASUU President, Prof. Christopher Piwuna, said no member had the authority to promote any political party or candidate on behalf of the union, warning that officials who violated the directive would face disciplinary action.
According to Arise News Piwuna stated this at the union’s 2026 Heroes’ Day celebration in Abuja, where he reaffirmed ASUU’s apolitical stance ahead of the elections.
He clarified that although members were free to exercise their constitutional rights to vote and participate in the electoral process, they must not present their personal political preferences as the union’s position.
“As far as the 2027 elections are concerned, we will not ask our members to abdicate their constitutional right to vote or participate in the process.
“However, no member of our union has permission to use the name of ASUU to support any candidate or political party.
“We remain apolitical, and we are not supporting any candidate. Any official of our union found hobnobbing with political parties or individuals in a manner that compromises this position will face action because our leaders are supposed to lead by example,” he said.
Piwuna further stressed that the union would not endorse any individual seeking elective office, irrespective of their political affiliation or the level of government involved.
“ASUU is not supporting any political party. I repeat, ASUU is not supporting any individual standing for election anywhere, today, tomorrow or the day after. We remain apolitical,” he added.
The declaration comes amid increasing political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections and concerns over the involvement of professional associations in partisan campaigns.
Meanwhile, the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, commended ASUU for its contributions to the development of Nigeria’s university system.
Ahmad acknowledged the union’s advocacy for improved funding, better working conditions for lecturers and quality higher education.
She also said the renegotiated ASUU-Federal Government agreement demonstrated the government’s commitment to addressing the concerns of university workers, promoting industrial harmony and improving teaching, learning and research in tertiary institutions.
The post ASUU Bars Officials From Endorsing Candidates, Parties Ahead Of 2027 Elections appeared first on OsunDefender.
