ASUU strike: FG withdraws order to reopen universities

The National Universities Commission has withdrawn its circular which earlier ordered vice-chancellors, pro-chancellors and governing councils to reopen federal universities.

This is contained in a  new circular issued Monday afternoon by the commission tagged NUC/ES/138/Vol.64/136, which was signed by the Director, Finance and Account of the NUC, Sam Onazi.

The withdrawal came a few hours after a report of an NUC circular directing the vice-chancellors of the federal universities to reopen their institutions and commence lectures.

The new letter titled ‘Withdrawal of circular NUC/ES/138/Vol.64/135 dated September 23, 2022’ 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.

“Consequently, the said circular stands withdrawn.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.”

The National Industrial Court of Nigeria last Wednesday ordered the Academic Staff Union of Universities to call off its seven-month nationwide strike and resume work while negotiations with the FG on its demands should continue.

But the union has challenged the order at the appeal court.

ASUU commenced the strike on February 14 to demand improved funding for universities, a review of salaries for lecturers, among other things.