ASUU Threatens Action Over UniAbuja Land Reallocation

The University of Abuja chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities has threatened industrial action over the reallocation of portions of the university’s 11,824-hectare land allocation in Giri District. Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike said the Federal Capital Territory Administration would not reverse the decision and was prepared to defend it in court if challenged. The union says the land is needed for the university’s long-term expansion, agricultural research and infrastructure. It objects to portions being assigned to private developers and government agencies, and chapter chairman Sylvanus Ugoh warned that the union could no longer guarantee industrial harmony if the reallocation proceeds. Wike, speaking during his monthly media chat in Port Harcourt on Thursday, rejected the union’s allegation of land grabbing. He said the FCTA controls land allocation in the territory and is responsible for enforcing the Abuja master plan. He also questioned ASUU’s authority to challenge land-allocation decisions. The minister argued that extensive holdings should not remain undeveloped and said public institutions should have the necessary approvals and...