ASUU Threatens Nationwide University Shutdown: FG’s Inaction Sparks Fresh Strike Warnings

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Nsukka Zone, has raised alarms over the Federal Government’s continued failure to address critical issues plaguing Nigeria’s university system, warning that another strike could be imminent. Zonal Coordinator Raphael Amokaha made this known in a statement released in Makurdi on Wednesday.

Amokaha highlighted that, out of patriotism, ASUU has avoided industrial action since the suspension of the 2022 strike. However, the government’s ongoing neglect may soon force the union into another strike.

“The Union has gone to great lengths to maintain harmony by seeking peaceful resolutions to the problems,” Amokaha stated.

He recalled how the 2022 strike was triggered after the government rejected a negotiated agreement and imposed an unacceptable offer, leaving ASUU with no choice but to strike. Amokaha criticized the government’s approach, noting that despite five years of negotiations, the government disregarded their agreement and implemented a unilateral solution.

Amokaha further expressed concern over the deteriorating state of Nigeria’s universities, lamenting that the situation has not improved for institutions or staff in the past 15 years. He highlighted that university staff remain the only public sector workers in Nigeria who have not received a salary review in over 15 years.

ASUU’s demands include the immediate renegotiation of the 2009 FGN/ASUU Agreement, the release of salaries withheld during the 2022 strike, payment of salaries owed to staff on sabbatical or part-time positions, and the resolution of issues with the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS). Additionally, ASUU is pushing for increased funding for university revitalization, payment of Earned Academic Allowances, and addressing the unchecked expansion of universities.

“The government holds the responsibility. If another strike occurs, it is solely due to their inaction,” Amokaha concluded.