Students in seven state-owned universities across Edo, Delta and Ondo states may soon face disruptions to their academic activities as the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has threatened to embark on an indefinite strike.
The union, through its Benin Zone leadership, expressed dissatisfaction over what it described as the failure of the affected state governments to implement agreements reached with university lecturers. ASUU warned that its members could withdraw their services if the outstanding issues are not resolved before the payment of July salaries.
According to the union, several benefits and allowances approved for academic staff remain unpaid despite repeated appeals and engagements with the relevant authorities. Lecturers are particularly demanding the payment of the Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance (CATA) and other outstanding entitlements.
The universities affected by the planned action include Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma; Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko; Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology; Delta State University, Abraka; University of Delta, Agbor; Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba; and Southern Delta University.
ASUU stated that while some state governments across the country have complied with the agreement reached with university workers, the affected institutions in Edo, Delta and Ondo states are yet to fully implement the provisions.
The union noted that it has continued to engage government officials through dialogue and consultations but claimed that little progress has been made. It added that members have become increasingly frustrated by the delay in addressing their concerns.
ASUU urged the governors of the three states to intervene urgently and ensure that the necessary payments are made to prevent a shutdown of academic activities. The union maintained that it prefers dialogue but may be left with no option other than an indefinite strike if its demands remain unmet.
If the strike eventually takes effect, thousands of students in the affected universities could experience another interruption in their academic calendar.
