The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU) chapter, has embarked on an indefinite strike, citing what it described as the failure of the university administration and government to address its long-standing demands for improved working conditions.
Comrade Awwal Hussain Nuhu, the SAZU ASUU Chairman, disclosed this during a press briefing held after an emergency congress at the Yuli campus. According to Nuhu, the union had made numerous attempts to resolve its grievances through dialogue, but the university management remained unresponsive, leaving the union with no alternative but to initiate the strike.
“The congress observed the university administration’s and government’s lack of willingness and commitment to address the union’s demands, despite numerous efforts on their part,” he stated.
Nuhu explained that during the congress, members deliberated extensively on the unresolved issues and the persistent neglect by the authorities. He noted that the lack of progress prompted a union member to propose a motion to declare a total and indefinite strike.
“As a result, a union member proposed a motion for the branch to initiate a total, comprehensive, and indefinite strike, which was seconded by another member,” Nuhu said.
The motion was overwhelmingly supported, leading to a resolution that the strike should commence immediately.
“The strike began at 12:00 pm on Friday, November 29, 2024,” he confirmed. “All ASUU members at SAZU are expected to comply, as no academic activities or meetings will take place during the strike.”
He further emphasized the scope of the industrial action, stating:
“Members are directed to fully participate in the indefinite strike, which includes suspending activities such as teaching, marking, meetings, accreditation, and all other academic staff-related duties until further notice.”
The union’s decision to strike highlights its dissatisfaction with the perceived unwillingness of the university administration to engage meaningfully with its demands. ASUU SAZU has stressed that the industrial action will remain in place until their grievances are addressed satisfactorily.
This development comes amid growing concerns over the welfare of academic staff in Nigerian universities, with stakeholders calling for urgent interventions to forestall disruptions to academic activities across institutions.
