From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), has accused the Committee of Federal Rectors (COFER), of overstepping their boundaries by meddling in union matters and misinterpreting the Trade Union Act.
Speaking with journalists in Offa, Kwara State, on Monday, the Zonal Coordinator of ASUP Zone C, Dr. Masopa Nurudeen, faulted COFER’s recent directive asking rectors of federal polytechnics to enforce what he called a “misguided” interpretation of the Trade Union Act 2006.
He described the action as a clear disregard for legal limits and union autonomy.
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“The Trade Union Act has been in operation since 2006 for all unions across universities, polytechnics, and Colleges of Education. It is unfortunate that COFER, an informal body without statutory powers, is now trying to assume the role of interpreting laws to suit its agenda,” Dr. Nurudeen said.
The union insisted that COFER, being merely an association of polytechnic heads under the Council of Heads of Polytechnics and Colleges of Technology (COHEADS), has no supervisory or legal mandate to dictate trade union practices.
“They forget that staff members are employees of the federal government. Consent to union membership was already secured during the IPPIS enrollment process. COFER’s action shows an embarrassing ignorance of basic industrial relations,” the union added.
ASUP further criticised the idea that staff should submit fresh written consent for union membership, calling it “laughable and lacking in common sense.” It stressed that membership consent was both explicit and implied through existing practices and enrolment procedures.
Particularly, ASUP condemned the role of the Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, accusing him of betrayal. It also cited similar moves by the rectors of Federal Polytechnics in Ekowe, Nekede, and Bida, saying their actions appeared to be motivated by an attempt to weaken the union’s influence, especially because of ASUP’s consistent opposition to unethical practices within the system.
Warning of consequences, ASUP vowed to resist any attempt to erode its role in defending the rights of polytechnic workers. “Any individual or group that seeks to undermine our efforts will be met with stiff resistance. We are unwavering in our commitment to protect the welfare and rights of our members,” Dr. Nurudeen warned.
The union demanded an immediate withdrawal of COFER’s directive and a public apology, declaring that it would not hesitate to explore both legal and industrial actions to defend its integrity and membership.
