The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has cautioned its members against using the union’s name, offices or communication platforms to campaign for political parties or candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The union said it would maintain its non-partisan stance, stressing that no official was authorised to associate the organisation with any political interest or electoral candidate.
ASUU President, Prof. Christopher Piwuna, issued the warning on Thursday during the union’s 2026 Heroes’ Day celebration in Abuja, where he reiterated its commitment to political neutrality.
He explained that while individual members were entitled to exercise their constitutional rights by voting and participating in the electoral process, such personal choices must not be presented as the position of the union.
Piwuna warned that any union official found using their position to promote political parties or candidates in the name of ASUU would face disciplinary measures.
He said the union would not endorse any candidate seeking elective office, irrespective of the political party or level of government involved.
The ASUU president added that its leadership was expected to uphold the organisation’s principles and serve as an example to members, insisting that the union would remain neutral throughout the 2027 electioneering period.
Meanwhile, the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, commended ASUU for its contributions to the growth and development of Nigeria’s university system.
Ahmad acknowledged the union’s sustained advocacy for improved funding of universities, better welfare for academic staff and enhanced standards of higher education.
She said the renegotiated agreement between ASUU and the Federal Government reflected the government’s willingness to address the concerns of university workers and strengthen industrial harmony in the education sector.
According to her, the agreement would also support improvements in teaching, learning and research across the country’s tertiary institutions.
