The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has firmly rejected the Federal Government’s ‘No Work, No Pay’ directive, maintaining that the union will not be intimidated by threats.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday, ASUU President, Professor Chris Piwuna, reaffirmed the union’s commitment to the ongoing industrial action and dismissed attempts by the government to create divisions within the academic community.
“We don’t respond to threats, and nobody can threaten us,” Piwuna stated.
He accused the government of trying to sow discord among academic bodies by offering selective payments to some unions. However, he emphasized that all academic groups remain united in the struggle.
“He is threatening us, writing to NAMDA and CONUA, telling them they can get their salaries. He wants to divide us, but we are united in this matter. CONUA is with us, NAMDA is with us, SSANU is with us, NASU is with us. The polytechnics and colleges of education are also with us,” he said.
Piwuna advised the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, to prioritize finding a lasting solution to the dispute rather than issuing threats.
“He has got something coming. He had better sit down and solve this problem or he will fail in trying to divide us,” the ASUU President warned.
Despite the firm stance, Piwuna noted that the union remains open to constructive dialogue with the Federal Government.
“Today, I received a call from the Minister of State for Labour. She said she has been directed to intervene and get this matter resolved. ASUU is willing. We are ready and available to discuss this matter once and for all,” he concluded.
