The University of Jos chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has explained the reasons behind its proposed industrial action, warning that a strike may be imminent if the Federal Government fails to meet its demands.
The union disclosed this during a meeting held on Friday in Jos, convened by its Students Relations Committee.
Speaking at the event, the ASUU Chairperson, Prof. Jurbe Molwus, thanked student leaders for their participation, noting that the meeting aimed to draw attention to the government’s continued neglect of the union’s demands and to enlighten students on ASUU’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s university system.
“Let me remind the general public that ASUU is worried it may no longer be able to guarantee the industrial harmony that has been enjoyed over the last two years.
“We have issued a 14-day ultimatum, which elapses on 13 October.
“If the government fails to satisfactorily address our demands, we will proceed on a two-week warning strike,” Molwus said.
Molwus explained that the decision followed the union’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held on September 28 in Abuja.
He stressed that ASUU’s demands were not self-serving but aimed at ensuring a more functional and sustainable university system.
“Our demands include the immediate release of the revitalisation fund as captured in the budget, signing and implementation of the 2009 agreement, payment of promotion arrears and responsibility allowances withheld by IPPIS, and reinstatement of victimised members in some universities,” he stated.
He added that the union was also demanding payment of the 23/35 per cent wage awards and the withheld three months’ salaries of members.
In her remarks, Miss Jane Pwajok, President of the University’s Student Union Government (SUG), commended ASUU for engaging students directly, describing the meeting as an eye-opener that provided clarity on the issues between the union and the government.
While praising ASUU for its commitment to improving education quality, Pwajok appealed to the union to explore alternative means of resolving its grievances to avoid disruptions to the academic calendar.
(Guardian)
