The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has instructed its members to join the nationwide strike initiated by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC).
The strike, set to commence at midnight on Monday, November 13, 2023, protests the reported assault on NLC President Joe Ajaero, allegedly carried out by police officers in Imo State. ASUU President Emmanuel Osodeke declared the strike necessary to safeguard the interests of Nigerian workers and the union’s leadership. Osodeke urged Zonal Coordinators and Branch Chairpersons to swiftly mobilize members for participation.
Meanwhile, the federal government has criticized the planned nationwide strike, denouncing it as an “unwarranted attempt to blackmail the government.” Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, expressed disappointment with the unions’ decision, emphasizing that the strike, deemed illegal and irresponsible, should not disrupt the national economy and social activities.
