ASUU Commences Indefinite Strike at Yobe State University
By Baba Dan’Iya
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Yobe State University (YSU) branch, has declared an indefinite strike over unresolved issues bordering autonomy and the failure of government to meet their statutory and financial entitlements.
Dr Ahmed Ibrahim Karage, Chairman of the ASUU-YSU branch, made the announcement on Thursday in Damaturu during a press briefing.
Karage said the union had no alternative but to embark on industrial action following months of engagements, formal communications, and appeals to the relevant authorities without a favourable response.
“Our decision was not taken lightly. It is borne out of the government’s persistent failure to implement the statutory and welfare demands submitted to it by the union,” he stated.
According to him, the union’s demands include the implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage and consequential adjustments approved in 2024 by the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission for all public universities.
He said the demands also cover the payment of arrears on the consequential adjustment from 2024 to date, and the immediate settlement of the 2019 minimum wage consequential arrears.
Karage further lamented the alleged failure of the state Ministry of Finance to appropriately place promoted staff on their corresponding salary steps, noting that many staff remain stagnant on Step 1 until their next promotion.
“This has led to the complete absence of annual increments, undermining staff morale and professional motivation,” he said.
The union is also demanding the payment of promotion arrears from 2018 to 2024, and the implementation of the 35 per cent and 25 per cent salary awards from January 2023 to date.
“These entitlements are not privileges; they are statutory obligations that constitute the foundation of our workforce’s welfare and capacity to deliver on the university’s mandate,” he added.
Karage said the lack of autonomy for Yobe State University is a key factor behind many of the institution’s challenges.
He insisted that the university must be allowed to operate within globally accepted academic and administrative standards.
“Universities are governed by universal norms and must not be treated differently based on location.
“Isolating Yobe State University from practices enjoyed in other public institutions only worsens the situation,” he said.
While expressing regret over the disruption the strike may cause to students and their families, Karage called for understanding and solidarity.
“The doors of the university will reopen the moment the government fulfils its responsibilities,” he assured.
He urged all stakeholders – including parents, students, alumni, civil society organisations, and the media – to prevail on the authorities to act with justice and fairness.
The ASUU chairman reaffirmed the union’s commitment to the advancement of education and national development.
He, however warned that the university’s progress would remain stunted without fair treatment of academic staff.
