The Academic Staff Union of Universities at Bauchi State-owned Sa’adu Zungur University has announced an indefinite strike, effective Friday, 29 November, 2024.
During a press conference following a congress at the university’s Yuli campus, ASUU SAZU Chairperson, Auwal Nuhu, outlined the reasons for the strike, citing poor working conditions, the absence of pension and retirement schemes, and the non-payment of earned academic allowances as key grievances.
Auwal explained that the strike was a result of the university administration’s and Bauchi State Government’s failure to address these long-standing issues. He stated, “The branch, at its congress meeting, reviewed the lack of progress in resolving our demands. We have exhausted all available channels, and our efforts to engage the authorities have proven futile.”
The union leader described the situation as “unbearable,” expressing that the university’s staff had reached their breaking point. “Our members are demoralized and left without financial security after years of service. This strike is a last resort after several unsuccessful attempts at dialogue,” Auwal added.
The union emphasized that the strike would continue until significant steps are taken to address their demands. This decision follows repeated warnings from the union, including the retirement notification of around 30 PhD holders, signaling a deepening crisis within the institution.
The indefinite strike will see ASUU members withholding services until their concerns are adequately addressed by the university and the state government.