The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has vowed to escalate its struggle against the federal government over lingering demands, including funding for public university revitalisation, unpaid salaries, and implementation of the University Transparency and Accountability Solution (UTAS).
Speaking at a press conference in Maiduguri on Friday after sensitising students and parents over FG’s unmet agreement, Dr. Abubakar Mshelia, Chairperson of the UNIMAID ASUU chapter, accused the Tinubu-led administration of neglecting its agreements, prompting the union to intensify its media and public engagements to mobilize support.
Dr Mshelia stated that a referendum will be conducted within four weeks to determine the next line of action, potentially including a nationwide strike.
He explained that ASUU is resolved to fight for its rights, citing that “we have sent a clear message to the government: address our demands or face the consequences.”
The union accused the Federal Government of being deceptive in handling university matters, dissolving all university governing councils, and paying ASUU members’ salaries through IPPIS despite agreeing not to use the platform.
Dr. Mshelia urged journalists and media houses to pressure the FG to take action, and the UNIMAID chapter has joined the national body of ASUU to demonstrate the urgency of the situation and the need for a united front in the face of government inaction.
“The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) is currently addressing several fundamental issues that have been in dispute for a long time. These issues are crucial to the well-being of the university education sector in Nigeria.
“One of the key issues is university autonomy, which is essential for creating a free intellectual environment that fosters academic advancements. ASUU believes that universities should have the freedom to manage their affairs without unnecessary interference from external forces. This includes the ability to manage their finances, which is why ASUU is demanding quarterly varsity fund releases.
“Another issue is the renegotiation of the 2009 Agreement between ASUU and the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN). This agreement addressed various issues, including funding, salaries, and university autonomy. However, the government has failed to implement many aspects of the agreement, leading to ongoing disputes.
‘Additionally, ASUU is seeking revitalization funds to improve university infrastructure and resources, as well as earned academic allowances (EAA) for its members. The government’s dissolution of university Governing Councils is also a point of contention. ASUU sees this move as an infringement on university autonomy and harmful to the education sector.
“Furthermore, the union is opposed to the increase in registration fees and the introduction of a student loan scheme, which could limit access to education for many students. Finally, ASUU is concerned about the proliferation of universities, which could lead to a decline in quality and standards”.
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