ASUU Launches Two-Week Warning Strike

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) commenced a two-week warning strike.
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‎The decision, announced by ASUU National President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, stems from the federal government’s failure to address longstanding demands, including increased funding for universities, payment of outstanding salaries and allowances, and the full implementation of the 2009 agreement.
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‎The strike, which began at midnight, has disrupted academic activities nationwide, leaving students, parents, and stakeholders anxious about the future of higher education.
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‎Prof. Osodeke, speaking at a press conference in Abuja, expressed frustration over what he described as the government’s “lack of sincerity” in resolving issues affecting public universities. “We have been patient, engaging in dialogue for months, but the government has shown little commitment.
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‎This warning strike is our last resort to draw attention to the decaying state of our universities,” he stated. ASUU’s demands also include the adoption of the University Transparency and Accountability Solution (UTAS) as an alternative to the government’s Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS), which the union argues is unsuitable for the university system.
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‎The strike has sparked widespread concern among students, many of whom have taken to social media platforms like X to express their frustration.
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‎“Another strike? This is unfair to us. When will we ever complete our studies on time?” posted @Adaobi_UI
‎, a student at the University of Ibadan.
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‎Parents, represented by groups like the National Association of Nigerian Parents, have also voiced their displeasure, urging both ASUU and the government to find a quick resolution.
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‎“Our children are the ones suffering. This back-and-forth must stop,” said Mr. Joseph Akpan, a parent in Port Harcourt.
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‎The Federal Ministry of Education, through its spokesperson, Aisha Bello, described the strike as “unnecessary” and called for renewed negotiations.
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‎The ministry reiterated its “no work, no pay” stance, stating that lecturers would not receive salaries for the strike period.
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‎“We have made efforts to address ASUU’s concerns, including partial releases of revitalization funds. This strike only hurts students,” Bello said.
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‎However, ASUU dismissed these claims, arguing that the government’s efforts have been inadequate and inconsistent. The impact of the strike is already being felt, with lecture halls empty and academic calendars disrupted.
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‎The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to intervene directly to avert a prolonged crisis.
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‎“We cannot afford another indefinite strike. The government and ASUU must prioritize students,” said NANS President, Comrade Lucky Emonefe. On X, hashtags like #EndASUUStrike and #SaveOurEducation are gaining traction as students mobilize for possible protests.
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‎Education analysts warn that the strike could worsen Nigeria’s education crisis, with public universities already struggling with outdated facilities, staff shortages, and declining global rankings.
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‎“This is a critical moment. Both parties must act responsibly to save our education system,” said Dr. Tunde Alabi, an education consultant in Lagos.
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‎ASUU has given the government a two-week ultimatum to meet its demands, threatening an indefinite strike if no progress is made. As negotiations remain stalled, Nigeria’s university students face an uncertain future, caught in the crossfire of a prolonged dispute.
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