The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) at the University of Medical Sciences, Ondo State, has raised concerns over alleged threats to the life of its Chairman, Comrade Oluwaseyi Gbenga Abayomi, which the union claims are linked to actions and statements made by the Vice Chancellor, Professor Ebunoluwa Aderonke Adejuyigbe.
In a petition submitted to the Nigeria Police Force, the union alleged that Abayomi has been receiving death threats and has been subjected to suspicious surveillance in both Ondo City and Akure, where he resides.
SSANU claimed the threats followed a town hall meeting convened by the Vice Chancellor on November 20, 2025, during which she allegedly made statements that incited members of the university community against union leaders. The union accused the Vice Chancellor of making what it described as false and misleading claims regarding SSANU’s position on certain appointments and salary payments.
According to the petition, SSANU’s actions were based on its demand for strict compliance with government directives, White Paper recommendations, and the university’s conditions of service. The union maintained that it has consistently engaged the university management through official channels to ensure adherence to established regulations.
The union alleged that during the town hall meeting, the Vice Chancellor blamed SSANU leaders for the non-payment of over eight months’ salaries owed to more than 100 staff members who were reportedly irregularly employed between January and March 2025. SSANU denied the allegation, stating that a committee set up by the Vice Chancellor, in line with government directives, had reviewed the appointments and made recommendations supported by relevant laws and regulations.
SSANU further accused the Vice Chancellor of publicly inciting staff against union leaders through what it described as emotional blackmail, which it said has led to growing tension and disturbances on campus. The union also alleged that Abayomi had received threatening phone calls from unknown callers, which it believes were intended to intimidate him for leading the union’s activities.
In addition, the union expressed concern that the university’s Bursar, who is currently on compulsory leave, or individuals loyal to him, could be connected to the alleged threats. SSANU stated that its demands regarding the Bursar—including issues relating to salary adjustments, recovery of excess payments, and official entitlements—were based solely on existing government directives and university regulations.
The union also raised objections to the reappointment of the Director of Gender, Health and Equality, Professor Augustinah Duyilemi, describing the action as a violation of the university’s rules on contract appointments. SSANU said it had earlier advised management to reverse the reappointment to avoid setting what it termed a negative precedent.
SSANU has called on the police to provide protection for Abayomi and other union leaders, stressing that their safety is at risk due to what it described as sustained public incitement and heightened hostility within the university community.
The union reiterated its commitment to lawful engagement and insisted that its actions were aimed at promoting transparency, accountability, and strict adherence to government and institutional regulations.
