Withheld Salaries: NASU, SSANU to Embark on indefinite strike Monday

The Joint Action Committee (JAC) of non-teaching university staff, consisting of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), has declared an indefinite nationwide strike, effective Sunday night, October 27, 2024.

The strike stems from the government’s failure to pay four months’ withheld salaries.

JAC leaders, Prince Peters Adeyemi (NASU General Secretary) and Comrade Mohammed Ibrahim (SSANU President), issued a circular to NASU and SSANU branch chairmen, explaining that the strike had been postponed from its initial start date of October 23 to ensure better coordination.

The unions expressed frustration over the delayed payment despite President Bola Tinubu’s approval to release 50% of the outstanding salaries. They criticized the alleged inaction by the Minister of Finance, which they say undermines the government’s commitment to resolving the issue.

According to the circular, “It is on record that JAC of NASU and SSANU has issued multiple notices to the government to redress this ugly situation. However, the sincerity of government to our cause is in doubt.

“However, the Trade Group Council Meeting of NASU branches in the Universities and Inter- University Centres has been scheduled to hold on Wednesday 23rd and Thursday 24th October 2024 at Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, and the arrangements for the meeting already concluded.

“In view of this, the leadership of JAC has decided that the effective date for the strike be moved to mid-night of Sunday, 27th October 2024, to allow the Branch Officers of NASU to be on ground before commencing the strike.

“We have to do this strategic change in timing for effective co-ordination and for both Unions to be on same page.

“We express our deepest appreciation for your steadfast commitment to the leadership and we affirm our determination to persist in this struggle until ultimate victory is secured.”