The Federal Government has threatened to enforce the “no work, no pay” policy against members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU if academic activities are disrupted in the nation’s universities.
In a statement, the Minister of Education, Dr. Olatunji Alausa says the policy of “no work, no pay” is in line with the extant laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
It notes that the government has continued to demonstrate goodwill and flexibility in handling the grievances of ASUU and will not abdicate its responsibility to uphold fairness and accountability in the use of public resources.
The statement urges ASUU to embrace dialogue rather than embarking on strike as it remains the most effective and sustainable path to resolving disagreements.
It reaffirms government’s openness to engagement at any level to prevent unnecessary disruption in the education sector.
According to the statement, the Federal Government has demonstrated sincerity, patience, and goodwill in its dialogue with the Union.
It notes that virtually all the concerns raised by ASUU have been addressed which include the introduction of a big percentage of teaching allowance and significant improvements in the conditions of service of academic staff.
The statement notes, “The remaining matters are those that rightfully fall within the jurisdiction of the governing councils of the respective universities, which have been recently reconstituted to handle such internal issues.
ASUU not cooperating
It adds that the government had met the deadline for presenting its position to the union as agreed, yet instead of reverting to the Ministry in continuation of dialogue, ASUU has chosen to proceed with strike.
According to the statement, this action does not reflect a spirit of cooperation or fairness to the students and the public, especially given the government’s demonstrable commitment and concrete steps already taken.
The Minister of Education reassures Nigerian students, parents, and the general public that the Federal Government is firmly committed to maintaining industrial harmony in the tertiary education system.
