ASUU gives 14-day ultimatum to embark on fresh nationwide strike

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has handed the Federal Government a fresh 14-day ultimatum to resolve several lingering issues.

ASUU President, Emmanuel Osodeke disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday, September 25, 2024.

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 release of withheld salaries due to the 2022 strike action.

Osodeke expressed frustration with the government’s lack of commitment and delay tactics, stating that these actions are fueling a crisis in 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.

What are the key demands of ASUU?

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

Earned Academic Allowances: Payment of Earned Academic Allowances, partly captured in the 2023 Federal Government Budget

University Governance: Implementation of reports from visitation panels, reversal of the illegal dissolution of Governing Councils, and adoption of the University Transparency and Accountability Solution.

The union warns that if these issues are not addressed within the stipulated timeframe, they will not be held responsible for any industrial disharmony that arises.