Government threatens sanctions as lecturers down tools over unpaid entitlements and failed promises
Nigeria’s university system is heading for another round of paralysis as the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) prepares to commence a two-week nationwide strike from Monday, October 13, plunging students and parents into fresh uncertainty.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the strike follows the Federal Government’s alleged failure to respond meaningfully to ASUU’s 14-day ultimatum issued on September 28, demanding full implementation of long-standing agreements.
The union’s National President, Professor Chris Piwuna, announced the industrial action on Sunday at the University of Abuja, describing the government’s attitude as “insensitive and unserious.”
“All branches have been directed to commence a full withdrawal of services from midnight, Monday, October 13,” Piwuna said, emphasizing that the strike would be total and comprehensive, affecting all teaching and academic activities nationwide.
Government Reacts With “No Work, No Pay” Threat
In swift response, the Federal Ministry of Education warned that the government would strictly enforce its “No Work, No Pay” policy throughout the strike duration.
A statement signed by Folasade Boriowo, Director of Press and Public Relations, stressed that while the government remains open to dialogue, it would not tolerate actions that “undermine national progress or waste public funds.”
“The Federal Government wishes to reaffirm its goodwill and flexibility in engaging with unions, but we will not compromise on accountability, fairness, and respect for the sanctity of public service,” the statement read.
Education Minister Dr. Tunji Alausa appealed to ASUU to reconsider its decision, warning that prolonged strike actions would worsen the academic calendar disruption already inflicted by past industrial crises.
Lecturers Decry Poor Welfare and Unmet Agreements
ASUU leaders have accused the government of deliberately neglecting university education while wasting resources on non-essential projects.
Piwuna lamented that most lecturers “are drowning in debt” due to stagnant salaries, unpaid allowances, and withheld promotion arrears, adding that many universities can no longer afford to maintain basic facilities.
“The 2009 Agreement has been renegotiated several times, yet implementation remains elusive. Our members can no longer continue under such deplorable conditions,” he said.
He also accused the government of failing to act on the Mahmud Yayale Ahmed Committee’s report on university funding, staff welfare, and the revitalization of tertiary institutions.
Students Brace for Another Disruption
Students across several universities have expressed frustration over the looming shutdown.
Many said they were exhausted by constant strikes that have extended their study periods and increased financial burdens on their families.
“I’m supposed to graduate this year, but ASUU strikes have delayed my life,” said Chinwe Okoro, a 400-level student at the University of Lagos. “Every time we think school will be stable, another crisis begins.”
Several student associations have called on both sides to find a peaceful resolution, warning that the current standoff could push more students into depression, crime, or idleness.
Tinubu’s Government Seeks Quick Resolution
According to DDM findings, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the reconstituted Mahmud Yayale Ahmed Negotiation Committee to resume talks with ASUU and other tertiary unions immediately.
A senior presidential aide disclosed that Tinubu views university stability as crucial to national development and economic recovery, especially with ongoing reforms in the education sector.
However, the government insists it will not bow to “blackmail through strikes,” insisting that fiscal discipline and accountability must guide public spending.
Historical Context
ASUU has embarked on over 16 nationwide strikes since 1999, with the most recent one, a prolonged eight-month strike in 2022, causing massive disruptions to academic calendars.
Despite several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) signed with the Federal Government, most agreements remain partially or completely unimplemented.
Observers say the current impasse may test Tinubu’s crisis-management capacity, especially as education stakeholders demand sustainable reforms rather than temporary palliatives.
As one analyst told DDM:
“ASUU’s strike is not just about salaries. It’s a cry against a decaying system that has been ignored for too long. The question is whether this government will do anything different.”