The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has clarified its current stance regarding the potential for a nationwide strike, despite previous threats to initiate such actions. In an exclusive interview with the Nigerian Tribune on Thursday, ASUU National President Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke provided insights into the union’s decision-making process.
Osodeke indicated that ASUU does not oppose the ongoing nationwide strike by the Senior Staff Union of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU). “They have the constitutional right to do so once they are convinced it is necessary,” he stated, acknowledging the legitimacy of their actions while maintaining ASUU’s unique position.
The ASUU president expressed disappointment with the government’s response to their concerns, noting that tangible progress has been lacking. “We met with the newly constituted Renegotiation Team and adjoined the meeting till upper week,” he said. His remarks highlight the ongoing frustrations felt by ASUU regarding the government’s failure to adequately address their issues, including the matter of withheld salaries.
Osodeke emphasized that ASUU has undertaken all necessary steps to prompt government action. “Our members across campuses nationwide have already voted, with up to 90 percent approving that we should go on strike since the government is not looking at our side,” he revealed. This overwhelming support among members reflects the growing impatience within the union.
Despite this readiness to strike, Osodeke explained that ASUU is choosing to wait. “We would have even declared strike but in our wisdom, we hold on to give government a benefit of doubt for a little more time,” he noted, pointing to the recent formation of a new Renegotiation Team as a reason for the temporary hold on strike action.
He reiterated the union’s desire to allow the newly formed committee the opportunity to make progress. “We feel we should give the committee a little space, and if nothing concrete happens, we will surely embark on strike,” Osodeke warned. This statement underscores ASUU’s commitment to exhausting all negotiation avenues before taking drastic measures.
The union’s leadership aims to ensure that any future decision to strike is justified and avoids placing blame on ASUU. “We are doing these so as to exhaust all the opportunities so that Nigerians will not blame ASUU but the government if the union eventually declares strike for members,” he concluded.
