The Academic Staff Union of Universities is set to review its mobilization efforts in different zones in preparation for an upcoming nationwide strike.
Branches of the union have issued a three-week ultimatum to the Federal Government regarding several unresolved demands.
The key issues relating to terms of service include various contentious matters outlined in the FGN/ASUU MoU 2012/2013 and the MoA of 2017. These include the illegal dissolution of Governing Councils in Federal and State Universities, payment of three and a half months of withheld salaries for work already completed.
“Other concerns involve the release of unpaid salaries for members on sabbatical, adjunct, etc., due to issues with IPPIS, third-party deductions by IPPIS, payment of Earned Academic Allowance, implementation of Visitation Panels’ reports, and the adoption of UTAS instead of IPPIS.”
It is pertinent to note that the government had initiated efforts to remunerate lecturers in federal universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education using the Government Integrated Financial Management System (GIFMIS).
A member of ASUU’s National Executive Council, speaking anonymously to a correspondent in Abuja, expressed disappointment with the government’s handling of the situation.
The member stated, “We have been observing the situation for a considerable period and are dismayed by the government’s lack of response. Following the mobilization, the NEC will convene to assess the actions taken and formally determine the next course of action.”