The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Sa’adu Zungur University, a Bauchi State-owned institution, has embarked on an indefinite strike over unresolved grievances.
The decision was announced during a press conference on Friday, November 29, 2024, held at the university’s Yuli campus. The ASUU SAZU Chairperson, Auwal Nuhu, highlighted key issues prompting the industrial action, including the absence of pension and retirement schemes, poor working conditions, and unpaid earned academic allowances.
Explaining the resolution, Nuhu said, “The branch, at its congress meeting held on Friday, November 29, 2024, in the presence of the NEC visitation team, reviewed the progress of its demonstration before the university.
The congress noted the lack of readiness and commitment of the university administration and the government to attend to its demands. It stressed that all mechanisms and attempts to resolve these issues had been exhausted, leaving no choice but to proceed with a comprehensive and indefinite strike.”
Describing the situation as “unbearable,” the chairperson accused the university management and Bauchi State Government of neglecting longstanding grievances despite repeated appeals.
“We cannot continue to work under these conditions. Our members are demoralized and left without any form of financial security after decades of service. This strike is a last resort after exhaustive dialogue and appeals,” Nuhu stated, adding that the strike would persist until concrete steps are taken to address their concerns.
The union’s decision comes after numerous warnings and notifications, including concerns about the impending retirement of approximately 30 PhD holders without a proper pension structure.
This strike marks the culmination of the union’s frustration over what it perceives as persistent inaction by the authorities. The ASUU branch has vowed not to return to work until all their demands are met.
