By Milcah Tanimu
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has issued a strong condemnation of the ongoing strike initiated by a faction of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at the University of Abuja.
In a statement released by NANS National President, Comrade Lucky Emonefe, on Monday, the striking lecturers were urged to reconsider their stance and return to their duties promptly.
Expressing disappointment, Emonefe emphasized ASUU’s disregard for the interests and challenges faced by Nigerian students and their families prior to resorting to strike actions.
Emonefe pledged NANS’ solidarity with the federal government and the University of Abuja’s administration in taking necessary steps to bring an end to the disruptive strike.
He remarked, “Gone are the days when tertiary institution staff, both teaching and non-teaching, would abruptly down tools instead of engaging in constructive dialogue to resolve grievances.”
Emonefe criticized the lack of sensitivity shown towards students, parents, and the educational system, labeling it as unacceptable behavior unbecoming of intellectuals who should pursue better alternatives to address issues.
Highlighting the detrimental impact of such strikes, Emonefe pointed out that Nigerian universities had lost over 16 months to ASUU strikes between 2020 and 2023, stressing the urgent need for more constructive conflict resolution methods.
He questioned ASUU’s tendency to resort to strikes prematurely, when other avenues for dispute resolution remain open for consideration.
Leave a Reply