Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), University of Jos chapter, has opened up to student leaders about its reasons for a proposed nationwide strike, citing prolonged neglect of its demands by the Federal Government.
The interactive session, held Friday in Jos and organised by ASUU’s Students Relations Committee, was aimed at fostering understanding between the union and students, as tension builds over a looming two-week warning strike.
Chairperson of the union, Prof. Jurbe Molwus, expressed gratitude to the student leaders for making the dialogue possible, noting that the conversation was crucial in raising awareness about the persistent issues threatening stability in Nigeria’s public universities.
> “Let me remind the general public that ASUU is worried that it may no longer be able to guarantee the industrial harmony that has been enjoyed over the last two years,” Molwus said.
“No doubt, the federal government is proud of ASUU for sustaining such tempo — but that has been achieved at the detriment of the welfare and wellbeing of our ever-resilient members who have suffered persistent denial of their entitlements.”
The union leader revealed that ASUU has already issued a 14-day ultimatum to the government, expiring on October 13. If no action is taken by then, he said, a two-week warning strike will commence without further notice.
According to Molwus, the planned industrial action stems from resolutions taken at the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held on September 28 in Abuja. He emphasized that the union’s demands are not for personal gain but are focused on improving the overall quality and sustainability of Nigeria’s higher education system.
> “Some of these demands include the immediate release of revitalisation funds as captured in the budget, signing and implementation of the 2009 agreement, payment of promotion arrears, and responsibility allowances trapped by IPPIS,” he explained.
> “We are also demanding the payment of the 23.5% and 35% wage awards, settlement of three months’ withheld salaries, and the reinstatement of our victimised members in certain institutions.”
In response, Miss Jane Pwajok, President of the Student Union Government (SUG) at the University of Jos, praised ASUU for initiating the engagement and providing clarity on the union’s grievances.
> “This meeting has been an eye-opener. It gave us a clearer understanding of the issues behind the union’s persistent agitations,” she said.
“We appreciate ASUU’s commitment to quality education. However, we also urge the union to explore less disruptive ways of pursuing its demands.”
The meeting comes just days before the deadline set by ASUU expires — a moment that could again plunge Nigeria’s tertiary institutions into a cycle of academic disruptions if no resolution is reached.
