In response to the reported assault on NLC National President Joe Ajaero, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has joined the nationwide strike, defying a court order.
Beyond this incident, ASUU’s participation reflects broader concerns over the government’s implementation of “neo-liberal economic policies” and unmet agreements.
The union demands the revitalization of universities, autonomy, academic freedom, and opposes the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS). ASUU criticizes the government for not honoring past agreements, including the 2009 FGN/ASUU Agreement.
Despite gains from the 2022 strike, funds for revitalization and Earned Academic Allowances are pending. ASUU rejects President Bola Tinubu’s decisions on university Governing Councils and opposes directives regarding Internally Generated Funds.
The union also challenges the National Universities Commission’s (NUC) Core Curriculum policy. ASUU’s involvement underscores a broader call for accountability and resolution of systemic issues affecting higher education in Nigeria.
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Why ASUU Joins NLC Nationwide strike
- Solidarity Against Assault: ASUU joins the nationwide strike in solidarity with the NLC and TUC following the reported brutalization of NLC National President Joe Ajaero in Imo State on November 1.
- Affiliation with NLC: Despite a restraining order, ASUU President Emmanuel Osodeke instructs members to actively participate in the strike, emphasizing the union’s affiliation with the Nigeria Labour Congress.
- Protest Against Economic Policies: ASUU’s participation is fueled by concerns over the government’s implementation of “neo-liberal economic policies,” reflecting broader socio-economic challenges affecting Nigerian workers.
- Unmet Agreements and Demands: The union’s decision stems from unresolved issues, including the non-implementation of past agreements such as the 2009 FGN/ASUU Agreement and opposition to the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS).
- Call for Government Accountability: ASUU demands the government’s commitment to addressing outstanding issues, including the release of funds for revitalization and Earned Academic Allowances, rejection of certain policies, and the unconditional release of all withheld salaries.
READ ALSO: Strike: Blackout looms as NLC demands strict compliance from ASUU, Electricity Union
ASUU joins NLC nationwide strike
In another news, The Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU has announced its participation in the nationwide strike, aligning with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), starting from Monday midnight.
This was stated in a statement signed by the President, Emmanuel Osodeke on the 13th of November.
The statement read, “The Nigeria Labour Congress at a Joint National Executive Council (NEC) of NLC and TUC directed all affiliate Unions to commence withdrawal of services with effect from 12:00 midnight today 13th November, 2023.
