The Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU), Nasarawa State College of Education (COE), Akwanga chapter, has passed a ‘vote of no confidence’ on the Chairman of the institution’s Governing Council, Mr Ishaya A. Awotu.
The decision follows alleged threats to life and unguarded utterances by Awotu amid an escalating face-off over his leadership style.
The union passed the no confidence vote in a statement released after its emergency congress meeting held on Monday in Akwanga.
DAILY POST had reported on Wednesday, January 10 that NASU had written the state governor, Abdullahi Sule, demanding Awotu’s replacement, citing the alleged expiration of his tenure and accusing him of victimization and witch-hunting its members.
Awotu, in response to the union’s claims, denied the allegations, labeling them as cheap blackmail.
Through his lawyer, he issued a four-day ultimatum for the retraction of the union’s statements and a public apology to be published in at least two newspapers.
Awotu threatened legal action for defamation of character and disregard for due process, should the union fail to meet the demands.
During Monday’s emergency congress meeting, the union expressed dissatisfaction with the content of Awotu’s ultimatum.
The members of the union were particularly alarmed that the Governing Council Chairman, representing the governor, could resort to “insulting, intimidating, and threatening union leaders with legal action.”
On his part, Awotu alleged that the rift between hims and the union stems from his efforts to block financial leakages in the institution’s treasury and enhance the quality of education.
Awotu, a chartered accountant, stated that he is undeterred by the vote of no confidence, asserting that he is committed to the repositioning drive mandated by the governor.
He pledged to elevate the state-owned institution to greater heights in academic excellence and prudent resource management.
Vowing to see through his legal action, Awotu asserted that he remains resolute in his dedication to leaving the institution better than he found it in 2020 when he was inaugurated.
Meanwhile, the umbrella body representing all unions in the College has sought an audience with the Chairman and Members of the Governing Council.
In a letter dated January 12, they proposed Tuesday, January 16, as the date for the meeting to discuss “vital issues bordering on the welfare and rights of our members”.
Union passes ‘vote of no confidence’ on Nasarawa College of Education Governing Council chair