The Joint Action Committee of Lagos State University staff unions has declared an indefinite strike, citing low salaries and government neglect of their welfare.
The strike, which began on Friday, December 6, 2024, affects all staff under the Academic Staff Union of Universities, Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities, Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions, and National Association of Academic Technologists.
In a letter to the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, LASU-ASUU Chairman, Professor Ibrahim Bakare, explained the reasons for the strike.
The letter read: “In line with the decision of the Joint Action Committee of the Lagos State University Staff Unions, we reiterate our demand that the State Government implement the reports of the committees set up by the Government. As indicated in our letter to the Governor dated 19th November 2024, if the Government fails to meet our demands by 6th December 2024, we hereby notify you and the management of the university that all staff unions will embark on a total and indefinite strike, effective from the close of work on 6th December 2024.”
The unions accused the Lagos State Government of failing to address their grievances despite several appeals.
“While we acknowledge your efforts in trying to resolve this matter amicably, it is evident that the government has long neglected the welfare of our members, showing a lack of responsiveness and sensitivity to their needs. We appreciate your continued support, nonetheless,” the letter added.
Some lecturers, speaking anonymously, expressed anger over the salary disparity between university lecturers and their counterparts in polytechnics.
One lecturer said, “What frustrates us collectively is that polytechnic lecturers earn higher salaries than university lecturers, which is unfair.”
The strike has already disrupted academic and administrative activities at LASU. NASU-LASU had been on strike earlier, but the indefinite strike by all unions has now grounded operations at the university.
The unions are demanding a swift resolution of the issues, urging the government to implement recommendations from its committees and improve their salaries to align with national standards.
