The Obafemi Awolowo University faction of ASUU (Academic Staff Union of Universities) have issued warnings to Osun State’s commissioner of Police, as well as the Inspector General of Police to find a lasting solution to the lingering kidnapping crisis that has plagued the country, else, the union may be forced to go on strike.
The warning is coming after a member of ASUU, Professor Yinka Adegbehingbe, who lectures in the school, was kidnapped by some Fulani herdsmen, on his way to Ile Ife, two weeks ago.
According to the union, members of staff, as well as students in the university have become apprehensive of plying the route since the incidence.
While publicizing the agreement reached after holding a meeting on the security hitch, ASUU chairman in OAU, Adeola Egbetokun, stated that the victim and his wife confirmed that they had to pay a ransom before he gained back his freedom.
Adeola iterated that while one faction may not be able to force a nationwide strike, such measures may be taken by the national body of the union if the insecurity situation persists in the country.
Adeola stated, “ASUU OAU, while unanimously condemning the criminal act of kidnapping not only as a crime against humanity and the state, also observed that it is a barbaric act violating the Constitution, laws and customary decency of Nigeria.
“ASUU OAU also sorrowfully acknowledged the degrees of fear, trepidation, and anxiety pervading the atmosphere under which academic staff, students and other members of the university community are now going about their duties at the Obafemi Awolowo University.
“This is an unwelcome development capable of lowering the morale of workers and destroying academic, teaching and research activities.
“ASUU OAU equally observed that though the crime of kidnapping is not new in Nigeria, its upsurge and gradual incursion into Osun State, which is often celebrated as of one the most peaceful states in Nigeria, are issues seen as worrisome, and of serious concern to the governor of the state as the Chief Security Officer, state Commissioner of Police, all security agencies, obas and traditional authorities, local government, state authorities and the people of the state.”
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