Reps move to broker talks between FG, ASUU to end strike
Nigeria’s House of Representatives has resolved to immediately intervene between the federal government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) in a bid to facilitate a mutually acceptable and lasting resolution to the ongoing strike.
The House also urged both parties to exercise restraint, embrace constructive dialogue and prioritise the interests of students and national development above all other constitutions.
This follows a motion on the ‘urgent need for legislative intervention to avert a breakdown in the University system following ASUU’s warning strike’ sponsored by Sesi Whingan, Lawmaker representing Badagry federal constituency.
Members of ASUU had declared a two-week warning strike over unresolved issues relating to the implementation of prior agreements with the federal government, particularly on revitalisation funding, earned academic allowances, salary structure, and university autonomy.
The House said the lingering impasse between ASUU and the federal government requires renewed dialogue anchored on mutual respect, transparency, and good faith, with the Legislature serving as a neutral facilitator in the interest of students and the nation.
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The House noted with concern that although ASUU has described the strike as a warning, such industrial actions have historically escalated into prolonged shutdowns that disrupt academic calendars, derail research, and deepen the frustration of students, parents, and lecturers alike.
The Green chamber regretted that repeated strikes in the tertiary sector have led to student dropouts, brain drain, and loss of public confidence, thereby threatening national stability and the realisation of Nigeria’s long-term development goals.
