The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) of the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, has joined the nationwide protest to demand the government’s attention to their long-standing demands, some of which have been unresolved for the past 15 years.
What They Are Saying
The protest, which started from the union’s secretariat, saw the Vice Chairman of the branch, Dr. Muhammad Inti, leading other placard-carrying union members through the school’s premises while stating their demands.
According to the union, the protest is an attempt to avert another strike, urging the government to meet their renegotiated demands. These demands include the conclusion of the 2009 renegotiation agreement, payment of earned academic allowances, releasing withheld salaries, and payment of promotion arrears. The union also rejected the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS).
Speaking during the protest, Dr. Inti urged the Federal Government to provide adequate funding for public universities and to revert the illegal dissolution of public universities’ governing councils. He added that the union hopes the protest will compel the government to address their concerns and prevent another round of strikes.
Why It Matters
ASUU strikes have had a devastating impact on the Nigerian educational sector, causing delayed academic sessions and late graduations. The union’s demands, though longstanding, advocate for fair treatment and the rights of university staff. Addressing these demands is crucial to prevent escalated strike actions and further disruptions in the educational system.
Bottom Line
The protest by ASUU at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University in Bauchi is a significant move to draw the government’s attention to their unresolved issues. It underscores the union’s determination to have their voices heard and to seek resolution for their long-standing demands, highlighting the need for prompt government action to prevent further disruption in the educational sector.
