ABUJA –

Fresh tensions have erupted within the University of Abuja chapter of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) following allegations of physical assault leveled against the union’s chairman, Mr. Nurudeen Yusuf.

The incident reportedly occurred on Thursday, July 10, during an executive meeting at the union’s secretariat, where Mr. Yusuf allegedly assaulted the union’s treasurer, Mrs. Precious Sokari, amid heated arguments over internal leadership decisions.

Controversy Over Committee Formation

Sources within SSANU claim that the altercation was triggered by Mr. Yusuf’s alleged unilateral formation of 11 committees without consulting fellow executives, a move members say violates SSANU’s constitution and internal bylaws.

• “This act of violence by a leader entrusted with staff welfare is unacceptable,” said a concerned union member, speaking anonymously. “We demand immediate disciplinary action to preserve the integrity of the union and safeguard staff morale.”

Union insiders have described Mr. Yusuf as a “serial abuser” and have petitioned the University of Abuja management to investigate the matter and apply sanctions per the University Act.

“Sweeping this incident under the carpet will set a dangerous precedent for impunity,” another source said.

History of Controversy

This is not the first time Mr. Yusuf has faced backlash. In May 2023, he was accused of misappropriating staff allowances, an issue that reportedly drew multiple petitions to the university administration but was never fully addressed.

Chairman Denies Allegations

Responding to the allegations, Mr. Nurudeen Yusuf strongly denied any wrongdoing, calling the accusations baseless and politically motivated.

“This is yet another attempt to destabilize the university under one guise or another,” Yusuf said in an interview with Vanguard. “There are internal mechanisms within the union to resolve disagreements. This is nothing more than hearsay.”

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He confirmed that an emergency executive meeting had taken place to constitute committees for an upcoming Zonal Executive Council (ZEC) meeting, but insisted that no assault occurred.

“Disagreements may arise, but that doesn’t justify these wild accusations,” he added.

University Yet to Respond

As of the time of reporting, the University of Abuja management has not issued an official statement on the incident. However, observers and stakeholders within the university community are calling for a transparent investigation and swift disciplinary action to restore confidence in the union’s leadership.

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