FG, Goes On Bended Knees, Begs ASUU To Suspend Strike For The Sake Of The Students

FG, Goes On Bended Knees, Begs ASUU To Suspend Strike For The Sake Of The Students

[irp]

The Federal Government pleaded with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) on Tuesday to suspend their ongoing strike in the interest of the nation, and the students.

The Minister of Labour and Employment, Sen Chris Ngige said ASUU should call off the strike because the government was already negotiating the issues in dispute with the Association through Babalakin Committee.

In a statement signed by the Deputy Director, Press in the Ministry, Samuel Olowookere, the Minister said there was an on-going renegotiation of the 2009 agreement between the Federal Government and ASUU by the Committee.

According to the statement,

“The Federal Government has set up the Babalakin Committee on 13th Feb. 2017, which is already addressing the issues raised by ASUU.

“Though the Federal Government did not wish to apportion blame, it is important to note that ASUU did not follow due process in the declaration of the industrial action.

“As it did not give the Federal Government, the mandatory 15 days’ notice as contained in the Section 41 of Trade Disputes Act, Cap T8, 2004.

“In fact, it was on 14th Aug., 2017 that the Office of the Minister received a letter dated 13th Aug. 2017 from ASUU, that is, one full day after it commenced the strike,” he said.

“The Federal Government therefore wishes to appeal to ASUU to consider students who are currently writing degree and promotion examinations. Please call off the strike and return to the negotiation table.’’

[irp]