ASUU Strike: FG Backpedals, Withdraws Order to Reopen Universities in Nigeria

The federal government, through the National Universities Commission (NUC) yesterday withdrew an earlier circular in which it had ordered vice-chancellors, pro-chancellors and governing councils to re-open federal universities.

The NUC in an earlier circular had directed all vice-chancellors; pro-chancellors and chairmen of governing councils of federal universities to re-open the universities and the development was greeted with criticism from some stakeholders, including the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

But in another circular tagged NUC/ES/138/Vol.64/136, which was also signed by the Director, Finance and Account of the NUC, Sam Onazi, the commission withdrew the order.

The letter though did not explain why, the earlier letter titled, “withdrawal of circular NUC/ES/138/Vol.64/135 dated September 23, 2022,” was withdrawn, the latest letter partly read: “I have been directed to withdraw the NUC Circular Ref: NUC/ES/138/Vol.64/135, and dated September 23, 2022 on the above.

“Consequently, the said circular stands withdrawn. All pro-chancellors and chairmen of governing councils, as well as vice-chancellors of federal universities are to please note. Further development and information would be communicated to all relevant stakeholders.”

The earlier NUC letter which was obtained yesterday, was addressed to all vice-chancellors; pro-chancellors and chairmen of governing councils of federal universities.

“Ensure that ASUU members immediately resume/commence lectures; restore the daily activities and routines of the various university campuses,” the previous letter partly read.

The National Industrial Court of Nigeria had last Wednesday, ordered the union to call off its ongoing nationwide strike, which it had embarked upon in the past seven months.

ASUU has been on strike since February 14, 2022, to press home its demand for improved funding for universities and a review of salaries for lecturers, among other issues.