Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Ibrahim Ramalan
Published on 2024-03-19 06:19:28
The Federal Government has issued an appeal to the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) to call off their seven-day warning strike. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, made this appeal in a statement signed by Olajide Oshundun, the Director of Press and Public Relations in the ministry on Monday in Abuja.
The Joint Action Committee of SSANU and NASU had instructed its members to go on a seven-day warning strike due to the non-payment of four months’ withheld salaries. President Bola Tinubu had previously directed in October 2023 that university workers who went on a prolonged strike in 2022 should be paid for the four months they were on strike. It is worth noting that the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), who also participated in the strike, has received their withheld four months’ salaries.
Mrs. Onyejeocha expressed displeasure at the actions of the unions, stating that it showed a total disregard for the Federal Government’s efforts to address their concerns. She highlighted that the Ministry was not officially informed by the unions about their intention to go on a seven-day warning strike, which goes against the provisions of Section 18 of the Trade Dispute Act.
The Ministry became aware of the impending warning strike and reached out to the union leaders for an emergency meeting to prevent the strike. However, due to logistical challenges, a physical meeting could not be arranged, but a tele-discussion took place between the union leaders and the ministry. Subsequently, the ministry proposed a new date, Monday, March 18th, for a proper conciliation meeting in the hopes of avoiding the strike, but the unions rejected this date.
Mrs. Onyejeocha emphasized that strikes should only be used as a last resort after all conciliation efforts have been exhausted, as they do not serve any meaningful purpose. She urged SSANU and NASU to reconsider their position and engage in constructive dialogue with the federal government.
The Minister also called on all Nigerians to prioritize actions that benefit the country and its citizens. It is essential for all parties involved to work towards a mutually beneficial resolution that aligns with the well-being of the nation. The appeal was made in the best interest of fostering a peaceful and productive dialogue between the government and the unions.
In conclusion, the appeal from the Federal Government underscores the importance of addressing grievances through dialogue and peaceful negotiations rather than resorting to strikes as a first course of action. It is crucial for both parties to come to the table with an open mind and a willingness to find common ground for the betterment of all stakeholders involved in the education sector.
Read the original article on DailyNigerian.com
