Strike: FG makes U-turn, withdraws orders asking Vice-Chancellors to reopen universities 

The Federal Government (FG) on Monday withdrew its earlier directive asking the management of Vice-Chancellors in universities “to ensure that the striking members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) resume and commence lectures immediately.”

This was contained in a letter signed by the Director, Finance and Accounts of National Universities Commission (NUC), Mr Sam Onazi, on behalf of the Executive Secretary, Abubakar Rasheed, in Abuja.

Recall that the Federal Government had earlier today ordered Vice-Chancellors in universities to re-open schools and to allow students to resume lectures.

The FG had asked the pro chancellors and vice-chancellors to ensure that the striking lecturers resume and commence lectures immediately.

The FG’s directive had caused confusion for the university management as the vice-chancellors were unsure of how to go about the decision.

But the new letter by the National Universities Commission (NUC), which was addressed to the pro-chancellors and vice-chancellors of the federal universities is titled; “Withdrawal of Circular Ref: NUC/ES/138/Vol.64/135 Dated 23rd September 2022.”

The new letter referenced NUC/ES/138/Vol.64/136 and dated 26 September, partly read; “I have been directed to withdraw the National Universities Commission (NUC) circular Ref, NUC/ES/138/Vol.64/135 and dated 23rd September 2022 on the above subject. Consequently, the said Circular stands withdrawn.

“All Pro-Chancellors and Chairmen of Governing Councils, as well as Vice-Chancellors of Federal Universities, are to please note. Further development and information would be communicated to all relevant stakeholders.”

The letter, however, did not give reasons for the withdrawal.