By Damilare Adeleye
The Joint Action Committee of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has announced suspension of the ongoing nationwide indefinite strike effective from November 5, 2024.
The suspension was announced via a circular addressed to all branches of the two university based unions.
The circular was signed by Prince Peters Adeyemi, General Secretary of NASU and Comrade Mohammed Ibrahim, national President of SSANU.
According to NASU general secretary, the suspension was to enable the government pay their members the remaining months.
Both NASU and SSANU embarked on indefinite strike on Monday, September 28, to push for payment of four months withheld salaries since 2022, among other demands.
Meanwhile, on saturday, the federal government confirmed the release of funds for payment of the withheld salaries of NASU and SSANU members.
A statement by the director, Press and Public Relations, Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, OAGF, Bawa Mokwa, said the Federal Government has also released funds for payment of benefits to retirees under the Nigerian Union of Pensioners Contributory Pension Scheme Sector.
However, the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) said it would continue with its proposed nationwide protest and the picketing of the Federal Ministry of Finance if the about 50 percent of the five months withheld salaries are not paid as promised at the end of the two weeks ultimatum to the Federal Government.
The ultimatum which commenced on October 30, is expected to expire on November 13.
NAAT President, Comrade Ibeji Nwokoma confirmed to newsmen that his members have received one month out of the about three months they were expecting.