ASUU Rejects FG Plea, Strike Action Looms

Fresh reports indicate that the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, may be obstructing efforts to resolve persistent issues in Nigeria’s tertiary education sector.

Contrary to public assumptions, the federal government actively engaged ASUU in discussions as recently as last Friday. This crucial meeting occurred just days before the union announced its nationwide strike.

Government insiders revealed that negotiations, led by Senator Lanre Tejuosho, extended for several hours. Both sides described the talks as frank and constructive. ASUU leaders reportedly promised to consult their members and provide feedback afterward.

However, a senior Ministry of Education official expressed surprise. “They promised to get back after the meeting, but they didn’t. The next thing we saw was their public announcement of a nationwide strike,” the source stated.

Government officials claim they demonstrated responsiveness during ASUU’s two-week notice period. They held multiple meetings and opened fresh dialogues. Yet the union proceeded with industrial action despite these efforts.

As detailed in the complete version, there are several key factors to consider.

ASUU’s Position and Internal Divisions

Last week, ASUU National President Chris Piwuna warned the union’s stance would not change unless demands were met. An ASUU source confirmed the union did not respond to government calls following Friday’s meeting.

The ministry source added, “ASUU only got back on Sunday, after they had already gone public with the strike, and are yet to commit to another meeting date.”

This development raises questions about whether ASUU genuinely seeks resolution or maintains a hardline position that undermines education sector reforms.

Meanwhile, the Congress of University Academics, CONUA, has distanced itself from the strike. National President Dr. Niyi Sunmonu clarified, “CONUA has not declared any strike and is not part of any ongoing strike.”

Government’s Response and Next Steps

Following the strike commencement, the federal government warned it would enforce the “no work, no pay” policy if lecturers continue their action. Education Minister Tunji Alausa reiterated that the government has addressed all ASUU demands and urged the union to suspend the strike immediately.

The situation remains fluid as students and parents await further developments in the ongoing ASUU, government controversy that continues to disrupt academic activities across Nigerian universities.