Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT) is facing the threat of an indefinite strike as all the unions on the campus have issued a warning to the university’s management. The unions, which include the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT), the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), and the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU), have vowed to embark on a strike beginning on Saturday, January 18, 2025, if their demands are not met.
The decision was formalized in a circular dated December 17, 2024, from the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of all unions on campus, directed to the Vice-Chancellor of ESUT, Professor Aloysius-Michaels Okolie. The unions accused the management of failing to address the longstanding issue of unpaid arrears, which they claim has been ongoing for nearly three years since the current vice-chancellor assumed office. They stated that despite numerous appeals to the management, their concerns have been ignored.
The circular emphasized that the unions had been patient for a long period, but the failure to pay outstanding entitlements had stretched their patience to its limit. The document further warned that unless the management takes immediate action to clear the arrears by January 18, 2025, the unions would have no choice but to proceed with an indefinite strike.
The unions are demanding the defrayment of arrears owed to ESUT workers, which they believe is essential for maintaining industrial harmony and the smooth running of academic activities. With the expiration of the one-month notice period approaching, the tension is building on the campus, and the unions have made it clear that if their demands are not met, the strike will proceed without hesitation.
Should the strike go ahead, it is expected to disrupt the university’s academic calendar, potentially affecting students, staff, and the overall reputation of ESUT. The unions have expressed hope for a resolution but remain firm in their stance if the management fails to act promptly.
