House of Reps to Resolve FG and ASUU Rift on Salaries
The House of Representatives on Thursday at plenary unanimously adopted a motion moved by Rep. Paul Nnamchi (LP-Enugu State) and co-sponsored by Rep. Aminu Jaji (APC-Zamfara), Rep. Julius Ihonvbere (APC-Edo), and Rep. Lilian Orogbu (LP-Anambra).
The adoption of the motion means that they have agreed to intervene in the lingering rift between the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) over an unpaid eight-month salary.
The House of Rep. member Hon. Paul Nnamchi, on the motion, said that university lecturers provide knowledge, guidance, and mentorship to future leaders, and play a crucial role in the education system. Hence, the workforce is critical for the development of educational institutions and to ensure this there must be stability and motivation for the lecturers who are committed to teaching and research within the university.
The lawmaker disclosed that an eight-month strike action that ASUU members embarked on in 2022, aimed at addressing systemic issues, has unintentionally led to financial consequences for dedicated lecturers who participated in the strike.
His exact statement: “Section 17 of the Constitution provides that the state social order is founded on ideals of freedom, equality, and justice, and in furtherance of the social order, government actions shall be humane.
“Disturbed that Federal University lecturers are facing financial hardships and distress due to eight months’ salary owed as a result of the ASUU strike, with adverse consequences on students’ educational experiences and overall well-being.
“We are worried that the unpaid salaries can negatively affect lecturers’ morale, job satisfaction, and teaching effectiveness, thereby affecting the quality of education provided to students.
“The educational success and prospects of students are intricately linked to the financial security and dedication of teachers.
“Resolving this issue is crucial for the stability and excellence of universities, the welfare of educators, and the nation’s economy,” he said.
Tajudeen Abbas, the Speaker of the House, Rep. in his ruling ordered that the Committees on University Education, Finance, Appropriations, Labour and Productivity, and Legislative Compliance immediately intervene in the ASUU and the Federal Government disagreement. Hence, he charged the committee to bring solutions and recommendations in settling the rift between the FG and ASUU on the eight-month outstanding salary of lecturers following the ‘no work, no pay’ policy within two weeks.