ASUU Slams Federal Government Over Selective Implementation of Agreement, Warns of Possible Strike

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has accused the Federal Government of selectively implementing parts of its long-standing agreement with the union, warning that continued neglect could trigger another nationwide strike.

In a statement issued by its President, Professor Christopher Piwuna, after the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held at Taraba State University, Jalingo, ASUU expressed disappointment over what it described as the government’s inconsistent and half-hearted approach to honouring commitments made to the union.

Professor Piwuna said the union was deeply worried by the government’s “back-and-forth” attitude toward critical issues affecting Nigeria’s universities, stressing that such indecision could have serious consequences for the education sector.

He cautioned that if the Federal Government continues to delay action, another round of industrial action could be inevitable.

“We, therefore, hope that our expectations and indeed the expectations of Nigerians for a quick and holistic resolution are not dashed,” ASUU stated.

The union also accused certain government officials of undermining the negotiation process and misrepresenting facts, a development it said had further eroded trust.

While acknowledging the partial payment of promotion arrears dating back to 2017 and the release of third-party deductions, ASUU described these moves as mere “confidence-boosting gestures,” not lasting solutions to the root problems.

The university lecturers maintained that while some non-monetary elements of their agreement with the government have seen progress, key areas such as salary structures and conditions of service remain unresolved.

The union’s warning raises fresh concerns about the stability of Nigeria’s university system, which has already suffered multiple disruptions due to prolonged strikes in recent years.