The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo has alleged that the university’s management allocated over ₦65m for the 10th-anniversary celebrations while neglecting pressing staff welfare issues.
In a communiqué issued after a congress meeting, SSANU Chairman, Comrade Oluwaseyi Abayomi, described the expenditure as “insensitive” amidst economic challenges.
The union listed its key demands to include immediate remittance of pension arrears, implementation of the Orange Health Insurance Policy, payment of 57 months’ arrears of the 2019 minimum wage consequential adjustment, and bridging gaps in staff training and development.
The union in the communique, urged the management, led by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Adesegun Fatusi, to prioritise staff welfare over unnecessary spending.
“The congress condemns the plan to spend over ₦65m on a mere 10th anniversary at a time of economic hardship.
“Management must reverse this wasteful expenditure and focus on offsetting outstanding staff entitlements,” he said.
The union also directed its members to boycott the anniversary activities unless the management addresses their grievances.
The communiqué further advised the university’s Governing Council to ensure accountability, particularly in the ongoing selection process for a new vice-chancellor.
However, UNIMED described the allegations as baseless, accusing the union of bypassing internal conflict resolution mechanisms.
The institution’s spokesperson, Isaac Oluyi, clarified that the anniversary budget is far less than ₦65m and is primarily for developmental projects.
“It is unfortunate that a respected union would go public without seeking clarification.
“The accusations are laughable, especially since the university was recently celebrated for its achievements by the Ondo State government.
“The anniversary is not a jamboree but a strategic event to showcase the university’s achievements and attract support for its development. The Governing Council fully supports this initiative,” he said.