ASUU strike: FG fails to give reason why it withdrew circular directing VCs to reopen universities

The federal government did not give any reason why it made a U-turn on a directive given to pro-chancellors and chairmen of governing councils, as well as vice-chancellors of federal universities to reopen academic activities.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has been on strike since February 14, 2022 over money and infrastructure issues. Several meetings with the federal government has ended in a deadlock.

As a result, the federal government sent out a circular ordering all its universities be reopened, however, the circular was withdrawn just hours later with no particular reason stated.

According to the Punch, the latest decision was contained in a circular signed by Sam Onazi, director of finance and account of the National Universities Commission (NUC).

“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,” the circular reportedly reads.

“Consequently, the said circular stands withdrawn.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.”

The development comes amid back-and-forth deliberations — as well as a court order — over the strike embarked upon by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) in February over funding of public universities, allowances for lecturers, among other issues.