The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has instructed its members across the nation to cease work from midnight on Monday until further notice. Prof Emmanuel Osodeke, the President of ASUU, conveyed this directive in a letter addressed to all union zonal coordinators and branch chairpersons on the evening of November 13, 2023.
This decision aligns with the initial directive from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) for a nationwide industrial action starting at midnight.
President Osodeke emphasized ASUU’s affiliation with the NLC and the necessity to uphold the joint interest of Nigerian workers. He urged all union leaders at the zone and branch levels to mobilize their members promptly, asserting that unity among the people is pivotal.
In a separate development, ASUU expressed profound dissatisfaction with the severe economic crisis facing Nigeria and its citizens. The assessment of the nation’s condition, as well as the university system, took place during the two-day National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held at Kaduna State University on November 12, 2023.
However, the presidency has criticized the nationwide strike called by NLC and TUC, deeming it against national interests. Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, issued a statement on Monday, characterizing the unions’ action as a blatant disregard for a court order and a lack of respect for the judiciary. The government expressed displeasure, arguing that the entire nation should not suffer due to the personal interests of labor leaders.
The presidency labeled the strike as an “ego-tripping move” and accused the NLC and TUC of attempting to blackmail the government. The statement emphasized the illegality, immorality, unjustifiability, and irresponsibility of the strike, reiterating that a court order had been issued days prior, restraining the unions from embarking on such industrial action.