By Christiana Lot
The Joint Union of State-Owned Tertiary Institutions (JUPTI) unequivocally denounces the recent termination of all heads of tertiary institutions within Plateau State by Governor Caleb Muftwang. In a press conference convened in Jos, Plateau State on Tuesday, JUPTI Chairman, Comrade Peter Longbaam, conveyed profound concerns regarding the political undertones surrounding these dismissals. Emphasizing the potentially deleterious consequences for the institutions involved, Comrade Longbaam underscored the imperative for prompt intervention to rectify this situation.
JUPTI has observed with deep consternation the politicization surrounding both the removal and appointment processes of Chief Executives within Tertiary Institutions, alongside the outright annulment of employments executed in October 2022. In light of these developments, JUPTI feels compelled to convene this press conference, aimed at elucidating the imminent perils and adverse precedents engendered by the government’s actions.
Comrade Longbaam disclosed that the positions of Chief Executives for Plateau State University, Bokkos; Plateau State Polytechnic, Barkin Ladi; College of Education, Gindiri; and College of Health Technology, Pankshin and Zawan underwent rigorous recruitment processes, wherein appointees were meticulously vetted and found to be eminently qualified. Moreover, these appointments adhered scrupulously to the statutory regulations governing these institutions, thereby rendering their dismissal in contravention of established legal frameworks.
The union expresses profound dismay over the apparent disregard for due process and institutional regulations, which poses significant risks to the accreditation status of academic programs. Moreover, the subsequent imposition of “temporary appointments,” often superseding rightful successors as stipulated by law, further exacerbates this concerning trajectory. Such actions represent a serious setback in the ongoing pursuit of an enhanced educational landscape within the state.
JUPTI is deeply perturbed by the lack of transparency surrounding the government’s actions, particularly in light of prior commitments to transparency and justice. The union implores the government to reassess its decisions in the interest of fostering industrial harmony and upholding the principles of fairness and equity. Additionally, JUPTI urges a reevaluation of the employment cancellations enacted in October 2022, advocating for the reinstatement of qualified personnel vetted through successive committees and the resolution of any outstanding issues through equitable and judicious means.
JUPTI reiterates its steadfast commitment to the preservation of institutional integrity and academic excellence within Plateau State’s tertiary education sector. The union remains resolute in its call for the government to uphold the rule of law and to prioritize the collective welfare of all stakeholders involved.
