‘We Remain Apolitical’ — ASUU Bars Officials from Endorsing Political Candidates

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has warned its officials against using the organisation’s name, position or platform to endorse political candidates or parties ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.

The union’s President, Professor Christopher Piwuna, said ASUU would remain politically neutral and would not support any individual seeking elective office, regardless of political affiliation or level of government.

Piwuna gave the warning on Thursday, November 12, during the union’s 2026 Heroes’ Day celebration in Abuja.

He explained that members retained their constitutional rights to vote and participate in the electoral process but were not permitted to present their personal political preferences as the official position of the union.

“As far as the 2027 elections are concerned, we will not ask our members to abdicate their constitutional right to vote or participate in the process.

“However, no member of our union has permission to use the name of ASUU to support any candidate or political party,” he said.

The ASUU president warned that officials found associating with political parties or candidates in ways that compromised the union’s neutrality would face disciplinary action.

“We remain apolitical, and we are not supporting any candidate. Any official of our union found hobnobbing with political parties or individuals in a manner that compromises this position will face action because our leaders are supposed to lead by example,” Piwuna added.

He further stressed that the position applied to all elective offices and was not restricted to the presidential election.

“ASUU is not supporting any political party. I repeat, ASUU is not supporting any individual standing for election anywhere, today, tomorrow or the day after. We remain apolitical,” he said.

Piwuna’s declaration comes amid increasing political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections and renewed discussions about the involvement of professional and membership organisations in partisan politics.

The union also clarified that its political neutrality would not prevent individual members from participating in elections or exercising their democratic rights. Rather, the restriction concerns the use of ASUU’s identity and official platforms to promote political interests.

The Heroes’ Day celebration also featured discussions on electoral integrity, with the union emphasising the importance of credible, transparent and honest elections.

Speaking at the event, Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Ahmad, commended ASUU for its contributions to university education, particularly its advocacy for improved funding, better working conditions for lecturers and higher academic standards.

She also acknowledged the renegotiated agreement between the Federal Government and ASUU, describing it as part of efforts to address the concerns of university workers and strengthen industrial harmony.