University Ends Suspension of Lecturer Who Said Tricyclists Earn More Than Professors

The management of Abia State University (ABSU) has lifted the suspension on Nnamdi Nwaeze, a lecturer from the Department of Economics, Faculty of Economics and Management Sciences.

Earlier reports mentioned that Mr Nwaeze, a professor, was suspended for a Facebook post made in August. In that post, he claimed that professors at ABSU earn less than N400,000 as monthly salaries.

His post referred to the strike action announced by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at ABSU at that time.

Suspension Lifted

In a letter dated 3 September, signed by the Acting Registrar, Joy Nwankwo, the university announced that the lecturer’s suspension has been lifted.

“Following a written plea from ASUU-ABSU, the university management hereby lifts your suspension effective immediately,” Ms Nwankwo stated.

However, the acting registrar noted that the lifting of the suspension does not affect the investigation set up to look into allegations of misconduct against the lecturer. She mentioned that the “ultimate report” from the investigative panel is still pending.

'Momentary Victory'

In a lengthy Facebook post on Saturday, Mr Nwaeze thanked Nigerians who supported him and spoke out against his suspension. He said their efforts helped him achieve “this momentary victory.”

However, he pointed out that the university’s mention of an ongoing investigation implies that his recall is “a momentary reprieve.”

“While it seems difficult and unpopular to continue with the provocative suspension, they have merely stepped back but haven’t given up on conscience and justice,” he said.

'A Political Move'

Mr Nwaeze praised Governor Alex Otti of Abia State for helping with his recall. He explained that the governor might not have directly told anyone to oppress him.

While asking Mr Otti to address those troubling him, he reminded the governor that the path to justice and fairness is still long despite his help.

The lecturer claimed the lifting of his suspension was “a mere Greek gift” meant to prevent ASUU-ABSU from resuming their suspended strike after the 4 September deadline.

“More importantly, they offered this Greek gift to buy time and look for non-existent charges against me to achieve a biased outcome, whether to silence me, fire me, or tarnish my good name,” he said.

He added that while he is not perfect and open to investigations, he believes he has not done anything wrong against the university or Abia State Government.

“My troubles are politically motivated. I want to make it clear that I have faced several panels in the past two to three years, none of which found me guilty.

“Sadly, instead of seeking peace, these attacks have continued, leading to the unfortunate suspension,” he said.

“I want to tell everyone that these actions are politically planned and sponsored, using ABSU as a tool.”

Mr Nwaeze stressed that in his discussions on important issues and governance, he has remained respectful and never insulted or disrespected the governor or his office.

“Let me make it clear that I will firmly resist any attempt to intimidate, deceive, harm, victimize, or silence me,” he said.

He expressed worries about his safety at ABSU and in Abia State.

“However, legal steps are being taken to protect my life,” he said.