UNIJOS urges constructive resolution of trade disputes

University of Jos (UNIJOS) has acknowledged the commencement of a seven-day national warning strike embarked upon by the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) in the institution from Monday, March 18, 2024.

However, it called for constructive ways of settling trade disputes, since the institution is committed to quality academic environment.

“Management urges all parties involved to prioritise peaceful and constructive dialogue in resolving any outstanding issue, as the university remains committed to ensuring a conducive and harmonious academic environment,” he added.

The aggrieved workers, having notified the university authorities accordingly, UNIJOS management stated that it recognised the legitimate right of unions to embark on strike to pursue issues affecting their members.

In a statement, yesterday, the Senior Deputy Registrar of UNIJOS, Abdullahi Abdullahi, noted that the attention of management was drawn to what was initially intended as a peaceful withdrawal of services by the unions, but escalated to a situation where the gates to various campuses in the university were locked.

Abdullahi said: “In some instances, staff and students, who are not involved in the strike, were locked out of the various entrance and exit points of the university. This resulted in delays for some students writing their examinations and impacted members of other unions, who are not part of the strike.

“In response to these developments, the university management convened a meeting to interact with the union leaders and reached some resolutions, including that UNIJOS remains open and members of staff, who do not belong to any of the unions on strike, as well as students, are encouraged to carry on with their legitimate activities as normal.”

It was also resolved, The Guardian gathered, that members of the unions participating in the strike could withdraw their services, but should allow other staff and students to have uninterrupted access to the campus.

Also, it was agreed that all staff providing essential services are reminded of the Trade Disputes (Essential Services) Act of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which requires them to be present at their duty posts to render those essential services.

The management expressed its appreciation to all members of the university community for their understanding during this period and regretted any inconvenience caused by the strike to individuals or groups within the university.