Striking For Justice: SSANU President Reveals The Truth Behind Indefinite Nationwide Strike

Striking For Justice: SSANU President Reveals The Truth Behind Indefinite Nationwide Strike

The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) have initiated an indefinite nationwide strike across public universities.……CONTINUE READING 

This was announced by SSANU’s National President, Mohammed Ibrahim, during his appearance on Channels Television’s News Track on Monday.

Ibrahim stated that the strike was a “last resort” following unsuccessful negotiations with government officials to resolve the unions’ issues. He expressed that SSANU and NASU members felt “pushed to the wall,” prompting this extreme action.

The primary reason behind the strike is the urgent demand for the release of four months’ worth of withheld salaries owed to union members. He stated, “We have made several efforts to engage with the government to resolve the situation.”

He recounted past protests and discussions with government officials, explaining, “In July, specifically on the 17th, we held several protests in Abuja. Following this, the NLC took the matter to the president, where it was agreed that 50% of the owed salaries would be paid. However, three months later, this promise remains unfulfilled.”

Despite attempts to communicate with the newly appointed Minister of Education, the unions have resolved to continue the strike until their payments are processed. Ibrahim added, “Our members have convened in various branches, and the strike has begun. Consequently, all departments in bursary, registry, works, maintenance, security, and student affairs will remain inactive until payment is made.”

He acknowledged that overtures were made by the previous minister, and even on the day of the announcement, he received a call from the minister-designate, who expressed a desire to meet. However, he emphasized that the leadership of SSANU and NASU would have to deliberate on the matter. “Currently, none of us is in Abuja, and we are exploring how to meet. However, we will call off the strike immediately once the payments are processed today, as they are done via electronic transfer,” he concluded.