Nigeria: ASUU Shuts Nigerian University, Gives Reason
[Premium Times] The academic union said during a press conference that the industrial action was deemed necessary after several engagements with the university management failed.
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Imo State University (IMSU) in Owerri has declared a total and indefinite strike. This decision was made after several failed negotiations with university management. The strike began on Monday at the press conference held at the university. ASUU Chairman Stephen Oguji and Secretary Lazarus Chikwendu stated that the industrial action was necessary due to the expiration of a 21-day ultimatum and the failure to address the union's demands.
The union has been advocating for improved welfare and conditions of service for academic staff, which were to take effect from January 1, 2026, following an agreement signed between ASUU and the federal government on December 23, 2025. The lecturers highlighted issues such as unpaid promotion arrears dating back to 2016, withheld salaries, and the non-payment of certain allowances since 2009.
They also criticized the continued retention of the university under the Treasury Single Account, which they deemed an erosion of university autonomy. The union has called for intervention from the Imo State Government, traditional and religious institutions, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to address the ongoing issues.
Written by urgent.news from AllAfrica's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
