The Federal Government has cautioned the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) that it will enforce the “no work, no pay” policy if the union proceeds with its planned nationwide strike.
ASUU had earlier announced a two-week warning strike beginning October 13, citing the government’s failure to address long-standing demands, including the renegotiation of the 2009 FGN-ASUU agreement, release of withheld salaries, and improved funding for public universities.
In a statement on Sunday, the Ministry of Education expressed disappointment over ASUU’s decision, describing it as uncooperative despite ongoing efforts to avert industrial action. The ministry emphasised that the “no work, no pay” rule is a valid labour law and would be applied if academic activities are disrupted.
“While the government continues to demonstrate goodwill and flexibility, it will not neglect its duty to ensure fairness and accountability in the use of public resources,” the statement read.
The ministry reaffirmed its readiness for dialogue, stressing that engagement not confrontation remains the best approach to resolving disputes. It also assured students, parents, and the public of its commitment to maintaining peace and stability within the tertiary education system.
ASUU President, Chris Piwuna, however, maintained that only concrete government action not promises would prevent the strike, despite previous appeals from the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, for the union to reconsider its stance.
