NLC Warns Tinubu Govt Over Unresolved ASUU Demands
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a warning that it may call for an emergency congress with its affiliates if the government, led by President Bola Tinubu, does not address the demands of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) amid its current two-week warning strike.
In a brief statement released on Monday and signed by its President, Joe Ajaero, the NLC condemned what it termed the government’s intimidation tactics, particularly its implementation of the “No Work, No Pay” policy.
The Congress pointed out that this approach would only exacerbate the crisis in Nigeria’s already struggling higher education system.
He indicated that the Nigerian government’s reluctance to fulfil its own agreements with university lecturers and other workers in the education sector is the root cause of the current industrial action.
“The initiation of a two-week warning strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) directly stems from the Federal Government’s failure to honour collectively negotiated agreements. This action is a necessary reaction to the neglect of a crucial aspect of our society,” the NLC stated.
The NLC also criticised the enforcement of the “No Work, No Pay” policy, emphasising that the breach of contract lies with the government, not the lecturers.
“The responsibility for the breach of contract lies with the state, not the educators. The lecturers are prepared to work; however, the government’s failure to meet its commitments has made it impossible for them to do so in a manner consistent with the dignity and conditions their profession deserves,” Ajaero asserted.
Addressing the wider implications of the crisis, the Congress cautioned that not resolving these issues could further marginalise millions of young Nigerians.
“This creates an educational gap that restricts social mobility and perpetuates inequality,” the NLC observed, adding that a well-educated populace is vital for national advancement.
Reaffirming its support for ASUU and other educational unions, the NLC stated that it would not remain passive while the country’s future is at risk.
“The struggle of ASUU is also our struggle. The fight for public education is a fight for the future of Nigeria. We will no longer allow these unions to face challenges alone,” the statement concluded.
The NLC warned that if the Nigerian government does not take decisive action by the conclusion of ASUU’s two-week warning strike, it will mobilise its structures nationwide and call for an emergency congress to decide on broader labour actions in support of the lecturers.
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