The Academic Staff Union of Secondary School Teachers (ASUSS) in Kaduna State has called on Governor Uba Sani to intervene in the alleged diversion of its members' check-off dues. The union's chairman, Mohammed Bala, made this appeal in Abuja during the 3rd national workshop organised by ASUSS. The workshop, themed "The Impact of Ethics and Attitudinal Change in Managerial Leadership," was part of activities to commemorate the 2026 World Teachers' Day.
According to Bala, the union's check-off dues have been diverted to a sister organisation, the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), despite monthly salary deductions from secondary school teachers across the state. This irregular remittance pattern has persisted for over three years, severely constraining the financial operational capacity of the secondary school teachers' union. Bala stated that ASUSS members report monthly deductions of up to N2,000 per teacher from their salaries, which are currently being channeled to the NUT rather than ASUSS accounts.
The union is appealing to Governor Sani to restore direct check-off payments into the official ASUSS account, allowing secondary school teachers in Kaduna state to fully benefit from their financial contributions. Bala believes that the governor may be unaware of the situation, attributing the diversion to internal manipulations by stakeholders within sister labour organisations. He emphasized that ASUSS has about 10,000 members across secondary schools in the state, who are growing increasingly discontented with current conditions.
Bala pledged the full support of the 10,000 members of the union to the Sani-led administration, particularly the efforts to transform the state's education sector. He stated that the executive officers are working continuously to calm agitation among the members, choosing peaceful advocacy over labour disputes that could disrupt the state's educational calendar. Bala assured that the union is not fighting with anyone and is aligned with the state government's developmental goals.
The union's chairman highlighted that ASUSS members are facing significant challenges but have exercised patience to avoid dividing the state or creating unnecessary conflict. Bala expressed hope that Governor Sani will address the issue and restore the union's operational status. The union's efforts aim to ensure that its members receive the benefits they are entitled to, which will enhance their productivity and overall well-being.
The alleged diversion of dues has significant implications for the secondary school teachers in Kaduna state, who are already facing challenges in the education sector. The union's appeal to Governor Sani is a call to action to address the issue and ensure that the teachers receive their rightful benefits. The governor's intervention is crucial in resolving the matter and restoring peace and stability in the education sector.
The ASUSS Kaduna chapter's decision to seek Governor Sani's intervention demonstrates its commitment to resolving the issue amicably. The union's leadership is working tirelessly to engage with relevant stakeholders and find a solution that benefits its members. By seeking the governor's intervention, the union aims to ensure that its members' rights are protected and that they receive the benefits they deserve.
Key points
- ASUSS Kaduna chapter urges Governor Uba Sani to restore operational status and redirect check-off dues.
- The union's members report monthly deductions of up to N2,000 per teacher from their salaries, which are currently being channeled to the NUT rather than ASUSS accounts.
- The union has about 10,000 members across secondary schools in the state, who are growing increasingly discontented with current conditions.