ASUU IMSU COMMENCES INDEFINITE STRIKE

BY IMSU CONNECT MEDIA

The Academic Staff Union of Universities, Imo State University, Owerri Branch (ASUU-IMSU) has commenced a total, comprehensive and indefinite strike with effect from 6 PM on Friday, September 20th, 2024. This decision stems from several unresolved issues, which have persisted for years and have affected the welfare of academic staff negatively. These issues include but are not limited to:

✅Promotions without Financial Benefits since 2016;

✅ASUU-IMSU staff salary disparity with those of other comparable tertiary institutions;

✅Undue Delays in Staff Assessment and Promotions;

✅Selective Salary Payment and Non-Payment of Arrears of Salaries;

✅Non-Payment of Earned Academic Allowance since the year 2009,

✅Non-Remittance of Union Check-Off/Welfare Dues: From February 2020 to September 2021;

✅Non-Remittance of Pension Deductions from May, 2016 to date;

✅Non-Payment of Annual Increment in Salaries;

✅Inclusion of Imo State University in the Treasury Single Account (TSA);

✅Funding of the University;

✅Erosion of the University Autonomy etc.

Despite several attempts to address these issues through letters, meetings, rallies, and press releases, no concrete actions have been taken by the university administration, Governing Council, or the Visitor to the University. Our members have been patient, but the worsening conditions have forced us into this position.

During our congress on July 18th, 2024, we issued a 21-day notice to resolve these issues. Since no solution has been reached within this period, we are now compelled to begin this indefinite strike to secure fair treatment and better working conditions.

We request the understanding and support of the public as we stand for justice, improved conditions, and a brighter future for the Imo State University.

In an alarming development during the ongoing Students’ Union Government (SUG) election at the Faculty of Agriculture, Nasarawa State University, Keffi (NSUK), the electoral process has been severely disrupted by the arrival of armed soldiers, reportedly from the Government House. The soldiers, arriving in a vehicle bearing the license plate number 145 NSGH, allegedly intervened in the election proceedings, creating a chaotic environment and forcing the eligible voters, agents, and observers to flee the polling area.

Eyewitness accounts and photographic evidence confirm the presence of these gun-wielding soldiers, who are accused of chasing away all legitimate participants in the election. The disruption is alleged to be part of an effort to manipulate the election in favor of a particular candidate, Rilwan Ahmed Barade, by stuffing ballot boxes with fraudulent votes.

This incident is deeply concerning as it undermines the principles of free, fair, and credible elections, which are essential in any democratic process. The involvement of external forces in what should be a student-led election raises serious questions about the integrity of the process and the safety of those involved.

In light of these events, there is a strong appeal to the management of Nasarawa State University, Keffi, to take immediate action. The election in the Faculty of Agriculture should be annulled, and steps must be taken to ensure that a fresh election is conducted under secure and transparent conditions. It is crucial that the university upholds the democratic rights of its students by ensuring that their votes are counted fairly and without undue interference.

The university community and all stakeholders are urged to remain vigilant and demand accountability to protect the sanctity of the electoral process. The credibility of the university and its commitment to democratic values are at stake, and swift action is required to restore trust in the electoral system.

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has threatened to occupy major cities across the country on September 15, if the recent increase in fuel prices is not reversed.

The Senate President of the student body, Henry Okuomo, disclosed this on Friday during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily.

This is coming after a factional Senate President of the association, Babatunde Akinteye, denied that the group was organising a protest against the increase in petrol price.