ASUU threatens strike, gives 14-day ultimatum

The Federal Government has been handed a 14-day ultimatum by the Academic Staff Union of Universities to address a number of outstanding issues. 

ASUU is requesting the release of salaries that have been delayed as a result of the 2022 strike action in addition to the conclusion of the renegotiation of the 2009 FGN/ASUU Agreement based on the Nimi Briggs Committee's Draft Agreement of 2021. 

In a statement released on Wednesday, ASUU President Emmanuel Osodeke voiced dissatisfaction with the government's lack of commitment and its methods of delay, claiming that these measures are exacerbating the crisis facing the public university system.

“In view of the foregoing, ASUU resolves to give the Nigerian Government another 14 days, in addition to the earlier 21 days, beginning from Monday, September 23, 2024, during which all the lingering issues must have been concretely addressed to the satisfaction of the membership of the union.

“The union should not be held responsible for any industrial disharmony that arises from the government’s failure to seize the new opportunity offered by ASUU to nip the looming crisis in the bud,” ASUU said.

In addition to the 2021 agreement's implementation, ASUU is demanding the payment of unpaid third-party deductions like check-off dues and cooperative contributions, as well as the release of unpaid salaries for employees on sabbatical, part-time, and adjunct appointments that are impacted by the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System. 

Additionally, the union is requesting financing for the payment of Earned Academic Allowances, which is partially covered by the 2023 Federal Government Budget, as well as for the revitalisation of public universities, which is partially covered by the same budget.

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