RismadarVoice Reporters
November 14, 2026
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has warned its officials against endorsing political candidates or parties in the union’s name ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
The union declared that it would remain politically neutral, stressing that officials who use its platform to promote partisan interests risk disciplinary action.
ASUU President, Professor Christopher Piwuna, announced the position during the union’s 2026 Heroes’ Day celebration held in Abuja on Thursday.
Piwuna explained that although members retained their constitutional rights to vote and participate in political activities, such involvement must not be presented as an official position of ASUU.
He maintained that the union would not endorse any candidate seeking elective office, regardless of political affiliation or the level of government involved.
According to him, union leaders must demonstrate political neutrality and avoid associations capable of compromising the organisation’s independence.
Piwuna warned that officials found engaging with political parties or candidates in ways that undermine ASUU’s declared position would face appropriate disciplinary measures.
He also clarified that the union would not officially nominate or deploy members to serve as electoral officers during the elections.
The ASUU president explained that the decision to focus the 2026 Heroes’ Day lecture on electoral integrity reflected the union’s concerns about transparency and credibility in Nigeria’s electoral process.
He emphasised the importance of responsible election management, public confidence and the role of security agencies in ensuring peaceful and credible elections.
Piwuna also expressed reservations about the possibility of establishing state police before the 2027 elections, citing the limited time available and the attention political leaders were giving to campaigns.
The Heroes’ Day lecture, delivered by veteran journalist and trade unionist Owei Lakemfa, examined insecurity, incumbency and the potential role of state police in Nigeria’s elections.
Also speaking at the event, the Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Ahmad, commended ASUU for its contributions to university education.
She acknowledged the union’s advocacy for improved institutional funding, lecturers’ welfare and higher academic standards.
Ahmad said the renegotiated agreement between the Federal Government and ASUU demonstrated efforts to address longstanding concerns and strengthen industrial harmony.
The annual Heroes’ Day celebration honours individuals who have contributed to the union’s struggles and the development of Nigeria’s university system.
ASUU reiterated that its members could exercise their individual political rights without committing the union to any candidate or party.
