The University of Nnigeria (UNN), Nsukka branch of ASUU says it will join a nationwide strike if the Federal Government fails to meet demands.
ASUU-UNN Chairman, Oyibo Eze, made the declaration on Tuesday in Nsukka after a congress and protest rally by members. He stressed the government would bear responsibility if the strike begins, citing its failure to honour agreements since 2009.
“The government’s inability to fulfil agreements with our union since 2009 is deeply unfortunate. It demonstrates a clear disregard for education,” Eze told journalists.
The protest, held under ASUU’s national directive, demanded payment of 3.5 months’ withheld salaries and implementation of the 2009 agreement. Eze said union members had voted to fully support any nationwide strike if their demands remain unmet.
“Our congress urged the government to honour all agreements with ASUU and pay the outstanding salaries. That is why you see today’s large turnout. Enough is enough,” he added.
ASUU’s NEC will meet September 2, after an August 28 negotiation with the FG, to decide on a nationwide strike.
During the rally, protesters marched through major roads on campus before converging at the administrative building. UNN Vice-Chancellor Prof. Simon Ortuanya, represented by Deputy VC Prof. Romanus Ezeokonkwo, praised lecturers for maintaining a peaceful demonstration. He urged the union to see strike as a last resort, promising to convey their demands to the Education Ministry.
Lecturers’ placards read: ‘FG, honour 2009 ASUU agreement,’ ‘Pay 3.5 months’ salaries,’ and ‘Pay 25% and 35% wage awards.’
ASUU’s national leadership earlier directed branches to hold campus protests and conduct referenda to prepare members for a possible nationwide strike.
