The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a 21-day strike notice to the Federal Government over unmet agreements. The notice, confirmed by ASUU's NEC, warns of impending industrial action if demands are not addressed. The notice is legally required and not an ultimatum.
In a significant move, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has officially notified the Federal Government of its intention to initiate a nationwide strike, issuing a 21-day notice. This development was confirmed by sources within ASUU's National Executive Council (NEC) on Monday in Abuja.
The notice follows a crucial NEC meeting held at the University of Ibadan, where members discussed the persistent challenges facing Nigeria’s public universities. The deliberations centered on the government's failure to honor agreements, including issues related to unpaid allowances, university funding, and the controversial Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS).
A member of the NEC, who spoke under the condition of anonymity, emphasized that the notice should not be viewed as an ultimatum but rather as a formal warning of potential industrial action. "It is not an ultimatum but a strike notice. We are giving them 21 days’ notice, after which we shall embark on strike," the source clarified.
The notice will be sent to key government bodies, including the Federal Ministries of Labour and Education, as required by labor laws. ASUU intends to ensure that all actions are conducted within the legal framework, making it clear that the union is prepared to proceed if the government does not address its demands.
As the 21-day period begins, students, parents, and university staff across the country are bracing for the possibility of yet another disruption to the academic calendar, with hopes that the government will take swift action to prevent the strike. The coming days will be critical as both parties navigate this tense standoff.