By Gabriella Ogbu
The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at the Federal University of Agriculture in Makurdi urged the federal government on Wednesday to uphold the conditions of the renegotiated 2009 agreement.
Comrade Paul Anyagh, Chairman of the ASUU Makurdi branch, outlined several critical issues included in the agreement. These issues encompass the Earned Academic Allowance (EAA), the implementation of University Transparency Accountability Solutions, adequate funding for the revitalization of public universities, the proliferation of universities, the payment of withheld salaries, and the reinstatement of governing council members whose tenures have not yet expired.
Anyagh emphasized the union’s frustration with what they perceive as the federal government’s pattern of making unfulfilled promises. He urged the government to demonstrate integrity and adhere to the agreed terms. “The federal government needs to quit making unfulfilling promises and have the guts to stick to its word,” he stated.
Despite the challenges posed by the morning rain, ASUU members gathered in protest to express their dissatisfaction with the non-implementation of the agreements. Their demonstration underscored their commitment to holding the government accountable and securing the necessary improvements for the university system.
The 2009 agreement has been a longstanding point of contention between ASUU and the federal government. The union argues that the provisions of the agreement are essential for enhancing the quality of education and ensuring fair treatment of academic staff across Nigeria’s public universities. The unresolved issues, particularly concerning funding and allowances, have led to multiple strikes and disruptions in the academic calendar over the years.
