The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has done it once again, dominating a few headlines with the recent declaration of a nationwide strike. This marks ASUU's 18th strike in 26 years. The 2 weeks strike initiated midnight for October 13, disrupting academic activities of many public institutions even before then.

ASUU President, Professor Chris Piwuna, announced the strike to the public on the 12th, stating that all branches have been directed to withdraw academic services from the midnight of October 13, emphasizing that the 2 weeks strike is just a warning, give the government opportunity to act before an indefinite strike, if demands are still neglected. 

ASUU demands the following from the Federal Government:

• Conclusion and signing of the renegotiated FGN-ASUU Agreement, covering salary structures, conditions of service, and university autonomy.

• Release of three-and-half months' salaries withheld from the 2022 strike, payment of outstanding 25-35% salary arrears, and promotion arrears across over four years.

• Sustainable funding for public universities, including release of the remaining ₦1,000,000,000,000 (1 trillion naira) from the pledge of N1.2 trillion (only N200 billion released so far).

• Release of withheld third-party deductions, an end to victimization of lecturers in institutions like LASU, KSU, and FUTO, and opposition to the Integrated Personnel Payroll Information System (IPPIS).

"It is a betrayal of historic responsibility if we continue to fall for the government’s deception and manipulation. What is needed is the fundamental transformation of our university system, not token promises.", states Professor Piwuna.

The Federal Government, on the other hand, urges ASUU to suspend the strike, claiming that "every single request by ASUU" has been addressed. The government has also enforced a "no-work-no-pay" policy, directing vice-chancellors to stop salaries for striking lecturers.

The Minister of Education Tunji Alausa, reassured students and parents, saying, "We’re doing everything humanly possible to keep your children in school".

Will this strike prove fruitful? Or will the disagreement continue? Sign up and leave your opinion in the comments