Taraba varsity ASUU suspends strike

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Taraba State University has suspended its strike action, which lasted for over a month.

Dr. Joshua Mbaver, the ASUU chairman, disclosed in a press release on Saturday that the state government has agreed to meet the union’s demands, which led to the strike action on December 5, 2024.

According to the statement, the strike was triggered by the Taraba State Government’s partial implementation of multiple Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and Memoranda of Action (MoAs) agreed upon with the union since 2014.

The ASUU chairman confirmed that key issues in dispute have been addressed with commitments from the government.

“The Government, through the Governing Council, will enhance university funding in line with Taraba State Law No. 4 of 2008.

“An initial payment of 10% of the total accumulated sum for Earned Academic Allowances (EAA) has been disbursed. Subsequently, 5% of the accumulated sum will be released monthly, starting in February 2025, until the entire arrears are fully cleared.

“The government has approved the implementation of a State-Defined Pension Scheme, with specific provisions for the prompt and efficient payment of benefits.

“A template for clearing arrears will be finalised by the first week of February 2025.

“Membership will be adjusted to comply with statutory requirements for the constitution of the University Governing Council.

“The Government has implemented the new national minimum wage and consequential adjustments, with a commitment to timely salary payments,” the statement read.

ALSO READ: Electricity: We’ve paid 45% of GenCos’ invoices – FG

Dr. Mbaver expressed that, following the agreements in place and with the approval of ASUU National, the ASUU-TSU Chapter has suspended the strike action with immediate effect.

“We extend our profound gratitude to ASUU National, the Zonal leadership, and the TSU Congress for their unwavering support, which has culminated in the successful resolution of this struggle.”

The ASUU chairman thanked Governor Agbu Kefas for his steadfast commitment and proactive leadership in resolving the recent dispute.

While expressing the union’s profound gratitude to all stakeholders whose unwavering support and contributions facilitated the resolution of the strike, ASUU commended the leadership of the Ministry of Tertiary Education and the University Administration for their collaborative efforts that made the resolution possible.