The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Taraba State University has declared an indefinite strike, citing grievances over unpaid wages, lack of a functional pension scheme, and non-payment of Earned Academic Allowances (EAA). The decision was announced during an emergency congress meeting held on Wednesday.
In a press statement, the union accused the university management and the Taraba State Government of failing to fulfill their financial obligations to academic staff despite repeated warnings and attempts at dialogue. ASUU leaders stated that their members had been pushed to the brink by months of delayed salaries and the absence of critical welfare provisions such as pensions.
“This strike is not just about us but about the survival of public university education in the state. We can no longer tolerate working under these deplorable conditions,” said Dr. Solomon Kuje, ASUU Chairperson for Taraba State University.
The strike has left thousands of students stranded, many of whom were in the middle of their examinations. The abrupt suspension of academic activities has caused widespread frustration and uncertainty on campus, with students calling on the government and ASUU to resolve the crisis promptly.
“I came all the way from my hometown for my exams, only to be told that lecturers have stopped work. This is unfair to us,” lamented Amina Musa, a 300-level student.
The strike also threatens to disrupt the university’s academic calendar, with fears that it could lead to a prolonged closure if swift action is not taken.
In response, the university management issued a brief statement urging ASUU to reconsider its decision, citing the ongoing financial challenges faced by the state. Efforts to reach the Taraba State Government for comment have been unsuccessful.
ASUU has vowed to remain on strike until its demands, which include the immediate payment of outstanding wages, implementation of a pension scheme, and settlement of EAA arrears, are fully met.
As the standoff continues, students, parents, and other stakeholders have called for urgent intervention to address the impasse and restore academic activities at the institution.
