The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), has given a hint that the union will call off its indefinite strike in no time, as its President, Prof Biodun Ogunyemi, announced that university lecturers are prepared to go back to work.
The Federal Government, has assured, through the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige, it would meet the union’s demands within the time frame it stipulated.
The ASUU president, Prof. Ogunyemi, who spoke at a meeting between the Federal Government, led by the Labour Minister and ASUU leadership, led by the President, said their members are willing and ready to resume because it is a matter of national interest.
He mentioned that their members also have their children at home, like all other parents who have their children at home due to the extended strike.
“Our members are ready and willing to go to class because it is a matter of national interest. Just like every other person’s child is at home, our member’s children are also at home”, Prof. Ogunyemi said.
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The ASUU Presidemt commended the Senate President, Accountant General of the Federation, the Minister of Labour and Employment amongst others for making it possible for them to deliberate on the issues.
He stretched that ASUU delegation brought an open mind to the meeting and pointed out that its members out there expect much from the meeting.
The president of ASUU also iterated that it is a matter of national interest that “we do what we are doing, and we are conscious of our place in history;” in addition, “If academic do not defend the academia, who defend the academics.”
Prof. Ogunyemi, therefore, urged all to look at the issues affecting the university system as a national emergency in the country.
The Federal Government, meanwhile, promised to meet ASUU demands within the time frame stipulated.
“The government is currently taking steps to ensure that all the demands of ASUU are met within the time frame issued by the union”, Dr Ngige said.
Source: NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
REPORTER: Odabi Collins