Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, has called on the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Gombe State University (GSU) to delay their planned strike, assuring them that their demands will be addressed promptly.
This plea was conveyed through the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Ibrahim Njodi, during a meeting with the ASUU National Executive Council (NEC) visitation panel at the Gombe State Government House on Thursday.
Our source reports that the state government has committed to resolving issues related to Earned Academic Allowances and other outstanding demands. Specifically, the government has promised to disburse ₦947,669,909.13 by Monday to cover these allowances.
Governor Yahaya noted that the State Executive Council would tackle this issue in their next meeting, emphasizing that “once the council meets by Monday, the issue of the strike would be part of the issues to be tackled and given expedited attention.” He added that if no action is taken after the specified time, ASUU could proceed with their plans.
The governor further urged the union to remain patient, stating, “What I’m saying is that ASUU should be patient. The question of going on strike now, like the Convener pointed out, is not going to solve any problem.”
Professor Daniel Gongula, who led the NEC visitation panel, commended the governor for prioritizing education but stressed the importance of the government sticking to the promised timeline.
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He remarked, “We will submit our report to ASUU principal officers. We need to be convinced.” Gongula also highlighted that other states had implemented the minimum wage adjustments without waiting for the National Minimum Wage table, implying that Gombe State should act swiftly to meet its obligations.
The state government’s move to address ASUU‘s concerns comes as a proactive measure to avoid disruptions in academic activities at GSU. Governor Yahaya’s administration aims to prevent a strike that could affect the university’s operations and the students’ academic calendar.
In response to the government’s commitments, ASUU members at GSU have decided to closely monitor the situation and await the outcome of the Monday meeting before making further decisions
