CurrentReport Blog The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a stern warning that it will commence a nationwide strike in the next two weeks if its long-standing agreements with the Federal Government are not honored. This announcement was made during a press conference and protest organized by the Calabar Zone of ASUU, held at the Abia State University, Uturu Main Campus.
Key Issues Highlighted by ASUU
Addressing the gathering, Comrade Happiness Uduk, the Zonal Coordinator of ASUU, Calabar Zone, expressed deep dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs in Nigerian universities. She enumerated several critical issues that the union claims the Federal Government has failed to address:
- No Salary Increment: Academic staff have not received the salary increments promised in previous agreements.
- Salary Arrears: Lecturers across various universities are owed significant back pay, with some being unpaid for as long as 14 months.
- Poor Funding of Universities: The union criticized the chronic underfunding of Nigerian universities, which has led to deteriorating educational standards.
- Non-payment of Earned Academic Allowances: ASUU noted that many members have not been paid their entitled allowances, further compounding their financial woes.
- Rejection of IPPIS and TSA: The Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS) and the Treasury Single Account (TSA) were rejected by the union at Abia State University, Uturu, citing inefficiencies and negative impacts on university autonomy.
- Victimization of ASUU Members: The union condemned what it described as the victimization of its members at Ebonyi State University (EBSU).
Concerns Over Federal Government’s Student Loan Scheme
Additionally, ASUU criticized the Federal Government’s recently introduced student loan package. The union argued that the scheme could potentially enslave Nigerian students with debt, rather than providing meaningful support for their education.
Call to Action and Potential Strike
Comrade Uduk made it clear that the union’s patience is wearing thin. “Universities would be shut down for academic activities in the next two weeks. Please take the message to them,” she declared, signaling the imminent disruption of academic activities if their demands are not met.
Echoing this sentiment, Dr. Chidi Mba, Chairman of ASUU at Abia State University, also voiced strong opposition to the Treasury Single Account (TSA) and highlighted the severe salary arrears facing university lecturers. He called on the Abia State Government to boost funding for educational institutions to avert the looming crisis.
ASUU Calabar Zone: A United Front
The Calabar Zone of ASUU, which includes seven universities such as the University of Calabar, University of Uyo, Alex Ekwueme University, Abia State University, Ebonyi State University, and Akwa Ibom State University, stands united in this cause. The potential strike underscores the union’s determination to secure better conditions for the academic staff and ensure the sustainability of quality education in Nigeria.
