The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a stern warning to the Nigerian government, threatening a 7-day nationwide strike in response to the lingering disputes over unresolved issues.
Note that, ASUU has been engaged in a protracted battle with the federal government over matters concerning university funding, staff welfare, and the implementation of previous agreements. Despite repeated negotiations, significant progress has yet to be made.
ASUU’s primary demands include:
1. Improved funding for universities
2. Implementation of the 2009 Agreement and 2013 Memorandum of Understanding
3. Resolution of staff welfare issues, including salary increments and earned allowances
4. Reconstitution of the Government Renegotiation Team
In a statement released by ASUU’s National President, Professor Emmanuel Osodeke, the union declared its intention to embark on a 7-day strike if the government fails to address their concerns within the stipulated time frame.
A potential strike would have far-reaching consequences, affecting:
1. Over 1 million students nationwide
2. Academic calendars and semester schedules
3. Research and academic activities
4. University operations and administrative functions
But Nigerian students are uninterested. Calling the action a seasonal campaign.
Recall, the Union was expected to begin an indefinite strike on September 9th. After issuing a warning on 19th of August.
But adjourned after a series of meetings with the Federal Government.
ICYMI: Based on Labour Laws, ASUU issued a twenty-one days notice. If FG still failed to honor their agreement, then the Academy Staff Union of Universities is expected to go on an indefinite strike from September 9th.
ASUU’s 2009 demands were renegotiated, the government failed to implement the agreement. And for over six years, allowances haven’t been paid.
Also, FG agreed with ASUU that they will provide them ₦200 billion every year for five years to revitalize the institutions which are heavily underfunded and way below world standards.
But FG only paid them once in 2013. Yet they kept approving new Universities without funding.
