The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has announced plans to withdraw services following the expiration of a 14-day ultimatum issued to the Federal Government to address their demands.
During a press briefing on Monday in Calabar, Comrade Happiness Uduk, the Zonal Coordinator for ASUU Calabar Zone, read a statement jointly signed by all Chairpersons in the region. Uduk stated that the Federal Government should be held accountable for any breakdown in industrial harmony resulting from its indifference towards the union’s plight.
“Our Union will withdraw services, and we should not be held responsible for the breakdown in industrial harmony that arises from the government’s insensitivity, insincerity, indifference, and time-buying tactics,” Uduk emphasized.
The press conference was called in response to the lack of progress in the union’s negotiations with the government. Uduk expressed frustration over the ongoing issues that have plagued the educational sector for years, stating, “With a feeling of indignation, we regret to bore you with the cry of anger, frustration, and unfulfilled promises that have tirelessly bedeviled our struggle.”
ASUU had previously issued a 21-day ultimatum to the government on August 20, 2024, to resolve long-standing issues dating back to 2009. Uduk highlighted that, despite numerous meetings, there had been no tangible changes. Instead, government representatives appeared more focused on collecting allowances for convening meetings rather than addressing the issues at hand.
“We are compelled to address you, gentlemen of the Press, on the latest developments regarding the inevitable and impending industrial action to press home our demands,” Uduk stated.
ASUU listed ten critical issues in contention, including the urgent need to conclude the renegotiation of the 2009 FGN/ASUU Agreement, based on the Draft Agreement from the Nimi Briggs Committee in 2021, which has become outdated due to economic realities.
Uduk pointed out that the government has failed to implement the contents of several Memoranda of Understanding and Action from 2013 to 2022, which has hindered progress toward restoring industrial harmony in public universities. He noted that previous renegotiations spanning over seven years have not resulted in any concrete action from the government.
“The last two concluded renegotiations have not been owned or implemented by the government,” Uduk added. “All efforts to get them to adopt and implement the said Agreement have been frustrated.”
As the situation develops, ASUU is urging the government to act promptly to prevent further deterioration of the educational system and avert another round of industrial action.