FG’s unholy marriage to ASUU faction 

The federal government yesterday confirmed it has no interest in reaching a truce with the striking Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). 

The FG presented a certificate of registration to the Congress of Nigerian University Academics (CONUA), a breakaway faction of the lecturers’ union. The presentation was done by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, with an invitation extended to newsmen by the Deputy Director of Press and Public Relations, Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Oshundun Olajide. 

What does this mean for ASUU? 

The registration of the new Union, which is led by its National Coordinator, Niyi Sunmonu, a lecturer at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, is the FG’s latest effort to force the hand of ASUU into a compromise. This follows ASUU’s refusal to comply with a ruling by the National Industrial Court on Sept 21, 2022 ordering members of the union to return to work. 

There have been mixed reactions from Nigerians to the CONUA registration. While some blamed both the FG and ASUU for the lingering dispute, others condemned the new union for sabotage of the University system. “And what’s the objective of this parallel Union? If it’s to evade responsibility and commitment toward varsity education, it will fail. It’s okay to have a parallel trade Union under the law and in a deregulated dispensation but the incoming Union should know the cane used in flogging the first wife is up there waiting for the arrival of the 2nd wife. Let’s see how far this romance will last but I know govt is an unfaithful groom reputed for reneging on marriage covenant”, a comment read.