ASUU Strike: FG backtracks, withdraws reopening orders of varsities

The Federal Government has withdrew its circular which ordered vice-chancellors, pro-chancellors and governing councils to re-open federal universities.

Recalls that an earlier circular tagged NUC/ES/138/Vol.64/135 was addressed to all vice-chancellors; pro-chancellors and chairmen of governing councils of federal universities ordering them to re-open universities.

However, the Federal Government through the National Universities Commission (NUC), on Monday, in another circular tagged NUC/ES/138/Vol.64/136, which was also signed by the Director, Finance and Account of the NUC, Sam Onazi, the commission withdrew the order.

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Though it did not explain why. The letter tagged, “withdrawal of circular NUC/ES/138/Vol.64/135 dated September 23, 2022” partly read, “I have been directed to withdraw the NUC Circular Ref: NUC/ES/138/Vol.64/135, and dated September 23, 2022 on the above subject.

“Consequently, the said circular stands withdrawn. All pro-chancellors and chairmen of governing councils, as well as vice-chancellors of federal universities are to please note. Further development and information would be communicated to all relevant stakeholders.

“Please accept the assurances of the Executive Secretary’s warmest regards”

ASUU commenced indefinite strike on February 14 over failure of the federal government to meet its demands.

Several meeting held by the federal government and ASUU delegations ended in deadlock hence the federal government dragged the union to National Industrial Court.

The court ruled in favour of the government last Wednesday and compelled the lecturers to return to work.

However, ASUU appealed the ruling through its lawyer, Femi Falana, maintaining its position that the strike would continue until the government met its demands.