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By Paul Akomolehin, South West
DAILY COURIER – The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a 21-day strike notice to the Federal Government, threatening to halt academic activities if their demands are not met. This decision, reached during the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting at the University of Ibadan (UI), aims to pressurize the government into resolving longstanding disputes affecting higher education institutions across the country.
The union's notice, which was communicated at the conclusion of the NEC meeting, is set to be officially dispatched to the Federal Ministries of Labour and Education. The notice is not an immediate ultimatum but a procedural requirement under labor laws, signaling the potential for industrial action should the government fail to address the issues within the specified period.
Persistent Demands and Unfulfilled Agreements
ASUU’s recent actions stem from unresolved grievances regarding agreements previously made with the government. These include the implementation of a 2009 renegotiated agreement and the payment of accumulated academic allowances that have been pending for over six years. The revitalization fund, part of the Needs Assessment Report, also remains a critical concern. The union had previously agreed on a N200 billion yearly allocation over five years to enhance university infrastructure and attract international students and faculty, yet only one installment has been received since 2013.
During a June 26 meeting with the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, ASUU officials were promised a review of the issues, with a follow-up meeting scheduled in two weeks to assess the government’s progress. ASUU President Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke emphasized that, despite these discussions, no significant improvements have been observed.
Pressure on the Federal Government
The 21-day notice amplifies the urgency for the government to take concrete steps toward resolving these disputes and avoiding further academic disruptions. The ongoing impasse threatens to escalate into a full-blown strike, which could impact students’ education nationwide and intensify the already strained relationship between the union and the federal authorities.
As the deadline approaches, all eyes are on the Federal Government to act decisively to address ASUU’s demands and avert a potential strike that could paralyze universities across Nigeria.
