The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Sa’adu Zungur University (SAZU) in Bauchi has declared an indefinite strike to demand better working conditions from the university administration.
In a press statement issued after an emergency congress held at the Yuli Campus in Bauchi, the ASUU Chairperson for SAZU, Comrade Awwal Hussain Nuhu, announced the resolution. He explained that the union had exhausted all efforts to engage the university administration and the government in meaningful dialogue, but these attempts were met with a lack of commitment and willingness to address their concerns.
“Following extensive deliberations, a motion was moved and seconded by members of the union for the branch to embark on a total, comprehensive, and indefinite strike action. The congress unanimously resolved to take this step, effective immediately,” Nuhu stated.
The strike commenced at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, November 29, 2024. In compliance with the resolution, ASUU members at SAZU are instructed to cease all academic and administrative activities until further notice.
“This decision means that all academic activities, including teaching, marking, meetings, accreditation exercises, and any other tasks typically carried out by academic staff, are suspended indefinitely. No member of ASUU in SAZU is permitted to participate in these activities while the strike lasts,” the statement read.
The strike underscores the union’s frustration over the continued neglect of its demands for improved working conditions. According to Nuhu, the university administration and relevant government authorities have shown little to no interest in resolving the issues despite repeated attempts to engage in constructive dialogue.
ASUU has consistently advocated for better funding of universities, improved welfare for academic staff, and the provision of critical infrastructure to enhance the quality of education. The indefinite strike at SAZU is yet another chapter in the union’s broader struggle for reforms within Nigeria’s tertiary education system.
The university’s administration and the government are yet to issue a formal response to the strike action. Meanwhile, students and stakeholders have expressed concerns over the disruption of academic activities, which could prolong their academic calendars and add to the challenges facing the institution.
