The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a two-week ultimatum to the Federal Government, warning of an imminent industrial action if various agreements remain unimplemented.
ASUU’s Zonal Coordinator of Calabar Zone, Comrade Happiness Uduk, delivered the ultimatum during a press conference and protest organized by the Zone at Abia State University, Uturu (ABSU) main campus.
Uduk expressed regret that agreements between ASUU and the Federal Government, including salary increases, salary arrears, university funding, and Earned Academic Allowances, have not been honored, significantly affecting the academic staff and the educational sector.
The union also voiced opposition to the Integrated Personal and Payroll Information System (IPPIS), criticized the introduction of a Treasury Single Account (TSA) at ABSU, and condemned the alleged victimization of ASUU members at Ebonyi State University (EBSU).
In addition, ASUU rejected the Federal government’s loan package for Nigerian students, warning it could lead to student enslavement.
“Universities will be shut down for academic activities in the next two weeks. Please convey this message,” Uduk declared.
Dr. Chidi Mba, Chairman of ASUU in Abia State University, echoed concerns about the TSA implementation and highlighted that members are owed between 11 to 14 months of salaries, with reports of slashed wages for some workers. He urged the Abia state government to increase funding for the university.
Meanwhile, traditional rulers in Uturu, Abia State, pleaded with ASUU members not to embark on another strike, emphasizing the potential adverse effects on the educational sector and the local economy. Eze Charles Onuoha, speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers, promised to relay their concerns to Governor Alex Otti.
Students present at the press conference appealed to the Federal and state governments to urgently resolve issues with ASUU to avert the looming strike.
The ASUU Calabar Zone comprises seven universities: University of Calabar, University of Uyo, Alex Ekwueme University, Abia State University, Ebonyi State University, and Akwa Ibom State University.
