Strike looms as ASUU issues 14 days ultimatum to FG

By Mariam Abeeb

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), has issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to resolve several lingering issues affecting lecturers.
This is made known in a press statement signed by ASUU President, Emmanuel Osodeke .
He expressed frustration with the government’s lack of commitment and delay tactics, noting that the actions were fueling a crisis in the public university system.
According to him, 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 is demanding the conclusion of the renegotiation of the 2009 FGN/ASUU Agreement based on the Nimi Briggs Committee’s Draft Agreement of 2021, and the payment of salaries withheld due to the union’s eight-month industrial action in 2022.
“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,” he said.
Other demands of the Union, according to Osodeke include, “Implementation of 2021 Agreement: Conclusion of the renegotiation of the 2009 FGN/ASUU Agreement based on the Nimi Briggs Committee’s Draft Agreement of 2021.
“Release of Withheld Salaries: Payment of salaries due to staff on sabbatical, part-time, and adjunct appointments affected by the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System.
“Payment of Outstanding Deductions: Settlement of outstanding third-party deductions, such as check-off dues and cooperative contributions
“Funding for Public Universities: Allocation of funds for the revitalization of public universities, partly captured in the 2023 Federal Government Budget and Earned Academic Allowances: Payment of Earned Academic Allowances, partly captured in the 2023 Federal Government Budget,” amongst others.
The union further warned that if these issues are not addressed within the stipulated timeframe, they will not be held responsible for any industrial disharmony that arises.