Abia varsity recalls suspended lecturer after ASUU intervention

Abia State University, Uturu, has lifted the suspension imposed on a lecturer in its Department of Economics, Prof. Nnamdi Nwaeze, following intervention by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

The university communicated the decision in a letter dated September 3, 2026, signed by the Acting Registrar, Dr Joy Nwankwo.

In the letter titled “Lifting of Suspension”, the management said Nwaeze’s suspension had been lifted with immediate effect after receiving a written appeal from the university’s ASUU chapter.

“Following a written plea from ASUU-ABSU, the University Management hereby lifts your suspension effective immediately,” the letter stated.

The university, however, made clear that the decision did not terminate the investigation into the lecturer, saying it remained subject to the outcome of an investigative panel constituted to examine the issues surrounding his suspension.

“This lifting is, however, without prejudice to the extant investigative panel on you, whose ultimate report is being awaited,” the letter added.

Nwaeze was suspended indefinitely after publicly raising concerns over conditions at the institution in a Facebook post, including issues relating to salaries and outstanding allowances.

His suspension subsequently became a major issue between the university management and ASUU-ABSU, with the union embarking on industrial action and making his reinstatement one of its demands for ending the strike.

The Abia State Government had earlier said the matter was an internal affair of the university. Governor Alex Otti, however, later met some of the demands presented by the union.

Confirming the development on Saturday, ASUU-ABSU Chairman, Prof Chidi Mba, said the union was aware of the university’s decision but declined to disclose details.

“Yes, the University has lifted the suspension. However, I cannot comment on the content. We are handling it administratively,” Mba said.

The lecturer’s reinstatement remains subject to the outcome of the ongoing investigative process.