Kaduna Govt appeals to striking varsity lecturers to return to classrooms
By Austine Agbo Emmanuel, Kaduna
The Kaduna State Government has called on the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) in the state to reconsider its ongoing industrial action, urging the union to act in the best interest of students and the wider educational sector.
The State Commissioner for Education, Muhammad Bello, made the appeal while speaking to journalists about the ongoing strike by the Kaduna State University (KASU) branch of ASUU.
ASUU resumed its previously suspended indefinite strike on April 24, citing the government’s failure to address key demands. Among the union’s grievances are the non-payment of withheld salaries from May to September 2022, arrears of Earned Academic Allowances (EAA) dating back to 2016, and the implementation of the 25% and 35% wage awards, alongside other unresolved issues.
Bello acknowledged the validity of the lecturers’ concerns but pointed out that the state’s current financial constraints have made it difficult to settle the outstanding arrears, which have reportedly accumulated to over N4 billion. However, he reassured the union that the administration is committed to finding a peaceful resolution and is determined not to neglect its obligations.
“We recognise the challenges faced by our academic staff and the disruptive effect of this strike on students and their families. We are appealing for patience while we work towards a lasting solution,” Bello said.
He underlined the importance of continued dialogue and urged ASUU to focus on the future of students, who have been left in limbo due to the strike.
In response, the Chairman of ASUU KASU, Dr. Peter Adamu, acknowledged the government’s financial difficulties but insisted that the union would persist with the industrial action until tangible commitments are made.
Dr. Adamu reaffirmed ASUU’s willingness to engage in further dialogue, provided the discussions lead to concrete actions.
Meanwhile, academic activities at the affected institutions remain suspended, leaving thousands of students stranded at home as the impasse continues.