Taraba varsity ASUU suspends strike

 Taraba State University ASUU Suspends Strike After Government Commitments

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Taraba State University has officially called off its strike, which commenced on December 5, 2024.

In a statement issued in Jalingo on Saturday, the union’s chairperson, Dr. Garba Joshua, confirmed the decision, attributing the industrial action to the state government’s partial fulfillment of agreements concerning university funding, Earned Academic Allowances, staff pensions and gratuities, outstanding salaries, the establishment of a governing council, and minimum wage adjustments.

Dr. Joshua expressed gratitude to Governor Agbu Kefas for his role in addressing the concerns that led to the strike. He also acknowledged the efforts of the Ministry of Tertiary Education, the university administration, and the general public for their patience and support during the period of industrial action.

According to Joshua, during negotiations, the government pledged to improve university funding in accordance with Taraba State Law No. 4 of 2008. Additionally, authorities committed to paying 10% of the total Earned Academic Allowance arrears, with 5% set to be disbursed monthly beginning in February 2025.

Key Agreements Reached:

• Implementation of a state-defined pension scheme to ensure the efficient payment of benefits.

• Development of a template for clearing salary arrears, expected to be finalized by early February 2025.

• Adjustments to ensure the university’s governing council meets statutory requirements.

• Full implementation of the new minimum wage structure, with assurances of regular salary payments.

Dr. Joshua reaffirmed ASUU’s dedication to maintaining a stable academic environment for students, staff, and the university community.

“With these resolutions in place and approval from ASUU National, the Taraba State University chapter has resolved to immediately suspend the strike,” the statement read. He also acknowledged the pivotal roles played by ASUU National, the zonal leadership, and the university congress in securing these commitments.

Following the suspension of the strike, the university is expected to resume its interrupted second-semester examinations in the coming days.