Labour opposes alleged plan to concession Unity Schools, threatens action

Organised labour under the aegis of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN), backed by parents and teachers have opposed an alleged move by the government to concession 120 Federal Unity Colleges to private individuals or associations

The union warned that such a move would undermine national unity, threaten jobs and make quality education unaffordable for many Nigerians.

Addressing a press conference in Lagos, Olubumi Fajobi, the national vice president of the association, said parents, students, workers and other stakeholders were united in opposing the proposed sale of the schools, which he described as symbols of national integration.

Balogun warned that privatisation would throw thousands of workers into the unemployment market while leading to sharp increases in school fees beyond the reach of low-income families.

He also rejected suggestions that the schools be handed over to Old Boys’ Associations, urging such groups to establish their own institutions instead.

He recalled that a similar attempt by the administration of in 2005 was resisted by organised labour and other stakeholders.

According to him, communities that originally donated land for the schools are also preparing to protest, insisting the land should revert to them rather than be transferred for private commercial ventures.

Balogun appealed to Nigerians, religious and traditional leaders to oppose the move and urged the government to preserve the legacy of the unity schools, established under to promote national cohesion.

He added that the union would continue engaging the government but would pursue legal action if necessary.