SSANU Threatens Industrial Action If FG Does Not Listen To Protest Demands

The National President of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), Mohammed Ibrahim says the union might embark on an industrial action if the Federal Government does not listen to their demands.

The Joint Action Committee (JAC) of Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) and Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) had earlier on Tuesday commenced a three-day national protest over irregularities in Integrated Payroll Personnel Information System (IPPIS) payments, non-payment of Earned Allowances, non-payment of arrears in minimum wage among other issues.

Ibrahim in an interview on Channels Television breakfast programme Sunrise Daily said although negotiations are currently ongoing, the union might go on a strike.

“In the labour laws, strikes are not abnormal. We can also go on strike but whenever our members go on strike, it is the last option, we don’t jump on strikes.

“We go on strike when it becomes inevitable, so I will not foreclose that if the government doesn’t listen (which I don’t want to believe because engagements have started), we will go on strike,” Ibrahim said.

The SSANU President explained further that situations are thoroughly assessed before the union proceed on a strike.

The ongoing protest, he said, is aimed at sensitising the government.

“We normally appraise situations, after day three of this protest, we will assemble in Abuja and appraise the situation. We will get our reports from the branches. The major aim of our protest is to sentisie the government for them to know that there is a problem and the problem is that they are not honouring agreements. From agreements, we have moved to MoUs.

“MoUs are turning to a charade – where you sit down, take tea and then sign MoUs which never see the light of the day,” he said.

Ibrahim said after the three-day protest, JAC will meet, appraise the situation and we will let the world their next line of action.

He also assured that whenever SSANU and NASU meet, any decision taken will be in the best interest of the system and their membership