By SUNTV Global Channel
January 18, 2026 | News
Teachers in Lagos State have moved formally against the continued stay in office of the National Treasurer of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), Comrade Adesegun Ganiu Raheem, following his retirement from the Lagos State Teaching Service.
Under the platform Concerned Teacher(s), Lagos State, a petition has been submitted to the National President of the NUT at the union’s headquarters in Abuja, challenging Raheem’s retention as an officer of the union despite his retirement, which reportedly took effect on July 16, 2025.
According to the petition, the NUT constitution clearly states that any teacher automatically ceases to be a member or officer of the union upon retirement or death. The group cited several constitutional provisions, insisting that the rules are explicit and must be obeyed.
“In clear language, Article 4(i, ii, iii), Article 4(III)(c)(b), and Article 29(c) of the union’s constitution are unambiguous and should be strictly adhered to in this case,” the petition stated.
The teachers warned that the union must not be seen as violating its own constitution, stressing that any action taken outside the rules carries both moral and legal consequences.
They called on the NUT National President and relevant organs of the union to immediately replace the retired national treasurer in line with constitutional provisions. The petition further demanded that the Lagos State Wing be allowed to nominate a replacement to fill the vacancy created by Raheem’s retirement.
While pressing for his removal, the group acknowledged Raheem’s past service to the union, noting that his contributions were appreciated during his active years. However, they urged the union’s leadership to act swiftly to avoid escalation of the dispute.
Lawyers Seek Registrar’s Intervention
In a related development, a legal firm, Orobode & Adegoke & Co., has written to the Registrar of Trade Unions at the Federal Ministry of Labour, Employment and Productivity on behalf of several retired NUT members.
The lawyers said their clients had resolved to pursue Raheem’s removal, arguing that he exceeded his constitutional tenure after attaining the mandatory retirement age on July 16, 2025. They maintained that the position of national treasurer cannot be lawfully occupied by a retiree.
The firm urged the Registrar to invoke statutory powers under Sections 41 and 42 of the Trade Union Act to investigate and audit the union’s accounts before the situation deteriorates further.
They also rejected a three-man committee reportedly set up by the union’s registered trustees, describing it as ultra vires and beyond the powers granted by law to anyone other than the Registrar of Trade Unions.
Among the demands listed in the letter are the immediate suspension of the treasurer, the appointment of an acting treasurer, and a forensic audit of the union’s finances. The lawyers also called for investigations into several NUT properties in Lagos, including the union’s legacy secretariat at 15 Rosamond Street, Surulere, properties in Yaba, and an undeveloped land in Victoria Island, raising concerns about ownership, management, and transparency.
The group further demanded that the findings of all investigations be made public.
According to the lawyers, their clients are prepared to approach the National Industrial Court if their demands are not addressed.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor developments and bring updates as the situation unfolds.
