The Colleges of Education Academic Staff Union (COEASU) has urged Governor Hope Uzodimma to intervene in the management crisis at Benjamin Uwajumogu State College of Education, Ihitte Uboma, Imo State. The union warned of a strike within two weeks if the issues are not addressed.
COEASU accuses the Acting Provost, Dr. Maryrose Nwachukwu, of abuse of power. The union claims she awarded contracts without due process and failed to follow the Procurement Act 2007. They say she has acted as provost for 30 months but only paid imprest for five months to directors, deans, and heads of departments (HODs). These leaders had to use their personal funds to prepare accreditation documents and cover logistics since March 2024. Despite applying for reimbursement, they say they haven’t been paid.
The union also claims Dr. Nwachukwu single-handedly procured items and awarded over N1.5 billion in TETFund contracts, excluding academic deans and HODs from the process. They accuse her of accessing TETFund for Microteaching laboratory equipment without involving the HOD.
COEASU further criticizes the execution of TETFund projects under Dr. Nwachukwu’s leadership. They say the projects were poorly designed, executed, and failed to align with the college’s development plan. The union also notes that lecturers, directors, deans, and HODs lack proper office furniture and basic amenities.
The union expressed concern that the college’s management disregarded their input in decision-making and project monitoring. They also say the claims of insecurity used to justify the neglect of essentials were never investigated.
COEASU demands immediate action from the Governor to resolve the crisis. If unresolved, they will proceed with the planned strike.