The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has notified the Federal Government of its intention to commence a nationwide strike, giving a 21-day notice period.
Sources within ASUU’s National Executive Council confirmed the development to our correspondent in Abuja on Monday. The notice was issued following a NEC meeting held at the University of Ibadan, and a formal copy is expected to be sent to the Federal Ministries of Labour and Education.
“This is not an ultimatum but a formal strike notice. We are providing a 21-day notice before we proceed with the strike,” said a source.
The notice complies with labor laws, ensuring that ASUU’s actions adhere to legal requirements.
ASUU had previously threatened to strike due to the federal government’s failure to implement agreements. On June 26, the Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, invited the union for discussions to address the issues and prevent the planned strike.
ASUU President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, reported that the agreements reached during the meeting had not been enacted. The union’s demands include the non-implementation of the 2009 re-negotiated agreements, which have been pending for over six years, and accumulated academic allowances that remain unpaid.
Osodeke also highlighted the need for revitalization funds, pointing out that only one payment has been made towards the agreed N200 billion yearly for five years since 2013. Additionally, he criticized the government for approving new universities without adequate funding, contributing to the ongoing challenges in the higher education sector.
