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The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the federal and state governments, demanding immediate action on unresolved issues that threaten the future of Nigeria’s public universities.
Failure to meet these demands, the union warns, will result in a nationwide strike.
ASUU National President, Emmanuel Osodeke, announced the ultimatum during a press conference on Wednesday, August 21, at the Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike.
Osodeke emphasized that the government has failed to address the “outstanding issues” that led to the 2022 strike, showing a disregard for the state of education in the country.
The union’s frustration stems from what it perceives as the government’s indifference to the plight of students and educators in public universities, many of whom struggle with inadequate funding and resources.
“The slow pace of the intervention by the Minister of Education in resolving these issues is unacceptable,” Osodeke stated.
He noted that the government’s inaction is particularly troubling given that most officials’ children do not attend public universities, leading to a perceived disinterest in the welfare of these institutions.
Among the key issues highlighted by ASUU are the need for a review and signing of the renegotiated 2009 FGN-ASUU Agreement and the disbursement of the Emergency Revitalization Fund for public universities.
However, the union also demands an end to illegal recruitments, the proliferation of public universities without adequate funding, and the abuse of university laws and regulations.
Osodeke warned that the NEC had received “alarming reports” of the government’s failed promises, which had forced the union to strike from February to October 2022.
furthermore, announced that Tuesday, September 10, would be observed as Victimised Lecturers’ Day to show solidarity with members who have faced unjust persecution.
ASUU’s ultimatum highlights the ongoing tension between the union and the government, with the future of Nigeria’s higher education hanging in the balance.
