Jalingo, Nigeria — The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) chapter at Taraba State University has declared an indefinite strike, disrupting academic activities, including the ongoing second-semester examinations. The decision was announced on Thursday after a congress meeting held at the university.
Dr. Garba Mbave, ASUU Chairperson, highlighted several unresolved grievances that prompted the industrial action. These include:
- Unpaid salaries
- Non-functional pension scheme
- Outstanding salary arrears from the 2022 ASUU nationwide strike
- Non-payment of Earned Academic Allowances
- Non-implementation of the national minimum wage for university staff
- Failure to approve a 35% salary increment for professors and proportional adjustments for other academic staff
- Absence of a governing council, hindering administrative and policy decisions
Dr. Mbave explained that the union had exhausted all options for dialogue with the university management and the state government.
“We have made repeated attempts to resolve these issues through negotiation, but the government’s persistent neglect of our welfare has left us no choice but to take this step. Staff members cannot continue to work under these conditions,” he stated.
The ASUU Chairperson expressed regret over the impact of the strike on students, especially those in the middle of their examinations.
“It is not our intention to disrupt examinations or leave students stranded, but this strike is the only viable option left to demand justice for our members,” he added.
Students and Government Reaction
Students affected by the strike voiced frustration, urging the state government and university authorities to address the situation swiftly.
Efforts to reach the Taraba State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Augustine Godwin, for comments were unsuccessful as calls and messages went unanswered at the time of reporting.
Broader Implications
The strike reflects recurring challenges in the Nigerian university system, including funding shortfalls and staff welfare issues. It also raises concerns about the credibility and stability of higher education in the state, a recurring theme in ASUU disputes nationwide.
The indefinite strike leaves students and academic programs in limbo, underscoring the urgent need for resolution to avoid further disruption.