The Federal Government has ordered the enforcement of its “no work, no pay” policy for university lecturers participating in the ongoing two-week warning strike declared by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).
The directive was contained in a circular issued on Monday and signed by the Minister of Education, Dr.Tunji Alausa. It was addressed to the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, pro-chancellors of all federal universities, the Accountant-General of the Federation, and the Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC).
In the circular, Alausa expressed the government’s displeasure over ASUU’s decision to embark on a nationwide strike despite ongoing negotiations and calls for dialogue. He said the action contradicted the government’s efforts to resolve the issues raised by the union through continuous engagement and consultation.
ASUU had earlier announced the two-week warning strike, effective from midnight on Monday, 13 October, citing the Federal Government’s failure to honour long-standing agreements and address key demands. These include the implementation of the renegotiated 2009 Agreement, improved funding for public universities, and better working conditions for academic staff.
While reiterating the government’s commitment to dialogue, the Education Minister urged ASUU to return to the negotiation table in the interest of students and the stability of the academic calendar.
