‘Use Your Knowledge to Survive,’ ABU Don Tells Nigerian Academics

Dr. Hashim Muhammad Suleiman of the Department of Mass Communication, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, has expressed concern over the treatment of Nigerian academics following the death of Professor Abubakar Roko of the Department of Computer Science, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto (UDUS).

Professor Roko died after a prolonged illness. His death came after an appeal for ₦13 million to fund his medical treatment in Egypt. Although donations were made, he was unable to travel for the treatment.

In a statement posted on his verified Facebook page, Dr. Suleiman, who specializes in Media Research and Digital Communication Technologies, urged academics to prioritize their own well-being in a country where, he said, “knowledge often takes a backseat.”

“Dear Nigerian academics,” Dr. Suleiman wrote, “let’s use our knowledge to take care of ourselves and our families.”

Quoting the late pop icon Michael Jackson, he added, “As Michael Jackson’s words echo again and again: ‘They don’t really care about us.’”

Dr. Suleiman also criticized what he sees as the failure to value education and intellectuals. “In Nigeria, it is the triumph of ignorance over knowledge,” he stated.

Professor Roko had spent decades in research and teaching. His condition worsened in recent months, leading UDUS to publicly seek financial support for his treatment abroad.

His death has sparked renewed discussion about the challenges facing Nigerian academics, particularly limited healthcare access and the absence of support systems for scholars in need.

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