By Daniel Edu
The ongoing strike by the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational Associated Institutions (NASU) has brought university activities nationwide to a standstill. The strike, which commenced on Monday, has been triggered by the Federal Government’s withholding of salaries for four months, sparking discontent among the staff.
National President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Joe Ajaero, has urged the government to promptly address the issue of the withheld salaries, emphasizing the dire consequences faced by affected university staff. The withheld salaries were initiated following the invocation of a ‘No Work, No Pay’ policy against SSANU and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) during previous strikes.
The exclusion of SSANU and NASU from salary payments, despite the government’s recent payment to ASUU members, has raised concerns and frustrations among the affected staff. Joe Ajaero stressed the need for fairness and equitable treatment, warning that discriminatory actions could lead to further industrial disputes.
Muhammed Ibrahim, the National President of SSANU, expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s neglect, highlighting the significant success of the ongoing strike, which has garnered widespread support from members. Ibrahim emphasized the importance of recognizing the essential role played by all university staff, not just academic personnel.
The strike has caused widespread disruption across university campuses nationwide, with reports indicating a high level of compliance among SSANU and NASU members. Universities such as the University of Ilorin, University of Jos, and Joseph Sawuan Tarka University have experienced complete shutdowns of activities due to the strike.
SSANU and NASU leaders have vowed to continue the strike until their demands, including the payment of withheld salaries, are met. They have called on the government to address their grievances promptly to avoid prolonged disruptions to academic activities and ensure the welfare of university staff.
