ASUU Issues 21-Day Strike Notice to Federal Government Over Unmet Demands
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a 21-day notice to the Federal Government, warning of a nationwide strike if their longstanding demands are not addressed.
The decision came at the end of ASUU’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, held at the University of Ibadan. According to sources within the union, an official notice is expected to be sent to the Federal Ministries of Labour and Education soon.
ASUU President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, stated that the notice is a precursor to potential industrial action, following the government’s failure to implement agreements reached as far back as 2009. These agreements include the re-negotiated terms from 2009, payment of accumulated academic allowances, provision of revitalization funds, and addressing the proliferation of universities across the country.
“It is not an ultimatum but a strike notice. We are giving them 21 days, after which we shall embark on a strike,” Prof. Osodeke clarified.
ASUU has long been advocating for the full implementation of the 2009 re-negotiated agreements, which address issues such as improved funding for public universities and fair compensation for academic staff. The union has also expressed concerns over the increasing number of new universities being approved without adequate funding.
Despite repeated negotiations and ASUU’s patience, the government has yet to fulfill its commitments. Prof. Osodeke emphasized that the union would escalate its actions if the government fails to respond positively within the 21-day window.
As of now, the Federal Government has not issued any response to ASUU’s latest demands. However, the union remains resolute, warning that a nationwide strike is imminent if the situation is not resolved promptly.
