The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has instructed its zonal coordinators and chairpersons to mobilize members for a nationwide strike, aligning with directives from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC).
The directive, conveyed in a letter signed by ASUU’s National President, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, was issued on Monday night.
Nationwide Strike Looms as NLC, TUC Protest Assault on Labour Leaders
The letter read,
“The Nigeria Labour Congress at a Joint National Executive Council of NLC and TUC directed all affiliate unions to commence withdrawal of services with effect from 12 midnight today November 13, 2023.
“As an affiliate of NLC, all members of our union are hereby directed to join this action of NLC to protect the interest of Nigerian workers and the leadership of the union.
“Zonal coordinators and branch chairpersons should immediately mobilise our members to participate in the action. A people united, cannot be defeated.”
This development comes in the wake of Labour Centres’ announcement on Monday, declaring the commencement of a nationwide strike.
The primary motivation behind the industrial action is the recent assault on NLC President, Joe Ajaero, and several other executives in Owerri, Imo State, on November 1. The strike also serves as a protest against unresolved labor issues in Imo State.
The NLC’s Head of Information, Benson Upah, disclosed that Ajaero was arrested by the police ahead of a state-wide protest in Imo, further intensifying the grievances that have spurred the nationwide strike.
