ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)-The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Sa’adu Zungur University, a Bauchi State-owned institution, has commenced an indefinite strike.
During a press conference held on Friday after a congress at the university’s Yuli campus, ASUU SAZU Chairperson, Auwal Nuhu, outlined the reasons for the industrial action.
These include the lack of pension and retirement schemes, poor working conditions, and unpaid earned academic allowances.
Auwal, who stated that the strike commenced on Friday, November 29, 2024, explained further that “The branch, at its congress meeting held on Friday, November 29, 2024 at the presence of the NEC visitation team reviewed the progress on its demonstration before the university
The congress noted the lack of readiness and commitment of the university administration and the government to attend to its demands.
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“The congress stressed that it has exhausted all mechanisms, and all attempts to get the authorities to attend to its demands which were fruitless.”
He added, “The congress passed a resolution for the branch to embark on comprehensive and indefinite strike action until further notice total.”
Auwal described the situation as “unbearable” and accused the university management and Bauchi State Government of failing to address longstanding issues.
He lamented that union members were being forced to work under poor conditions without financial security after years of service.
“We cannot continue to work under these conditions. Our members are demoralised and left without any form of financial security after decades of service. This strike is a last resort after exhaustive dialogue and appeals,” ASUU SAZU chairperson stated.
He emphasized that the strike would continue indefinitely until concrete steps are taken to address the union’s demands.
The indefinite strike comes after multiple warnings from the union, including concerns raised over the retirement of approximately 30 PhD holders.