The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a nationwide strike threat, citing the Federal Government’s failure to appoint Governing Councils for Federal Universities. The announcement came during a press briefing held at the University of Abuja, where the union voiced its dissatisfaction with what it perceives as the government’s neglect of academic matters in Nigerian Federal Universities. Among the specific grievances raised by ASUU is the government’s decision regarding salary increments, which the union views as precarious wage awards that could be retracted at any time.
ASUU President Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, speaking at the briefing, emphasized the union’s patience with the government led by President Bola Tinubu while urging for swift action. Osodeke underscored the importance of appointing Governing Councils for Federal-owned universities, expressing concern over the dissolution of existing councils, which ASUU considers unlawful and contrary to established university principles.
The dissolution of governing councils was reportedly prompted by a directive from the National Universities Commission (NUC), following a similar order by President Bola Tinubu to dissolve the boards of all government parastatals, agencies, and companies. ASUU’s grievances extend beyond the lack of Governing Council appointments; the union also criticizes the perceived lack of consultation and adherence to established protocols in these actions. These concerns raise significant questions about governance and academic autonomy in federal universities, prompting ASUU to consider drastic measures such as a nationwide strike to address these issues.
Follow us on Socials: