Unpaid Allowances: ASUU Warns Of Potential Strike In Sokoto Varsities

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has raised concerns over what it described as deteriorating welfare conditions in Sokoto State-owned tertiary institutions, warning that urgent government intervention is needed to prevent possible disruption of academic activities.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, ASUU branches at Sokoto State University and Shehu Shagari University of Education said members have continued to endure prolonged neglect despite several appeals to the relevant authorities.

The statement, jointly signed by ASUU-SSU chairperson, Dr. Bello Musa, and his counterpart at SSUE, Dr. Shamsu Kabiru, noted that unresolved welfare challenges are beginning to affect industrial harmony and could undermine teaching and research if not urgently addressed.

“These issues have lingered for too long despite several reminders… addressing them will sustain the harmonious working relationship and enhance productivity,” the statement noted.

The union listed two key demands, including the immediate implementation of the 2025 FGN-ASUU agreement, particularly the payment of peculiar allowances for teaching and research staff.

ASUU also noted that the federal government has already commenced implementation in federal universities, urging the Sokoto State Government to align with the same directive.

It further demanded: “Payment of Earned Academic Allowances (EAA) owed to lecturers for the 2022/2023 and 2023/2024 academic sessions, which remain unpaid”

The union maintained that lecturers in state-owned institutions should not be treated differently, especially as salary structures are subject to centrally negotiated agreements under Nigeria’s constitutional framework.

ASUU warned that continued delay in addressing the issues could heighten dissatisfaction among academic staff and potentially disrupt the academic calendar in both institutions.

The development reflects growing tension within Sokoto’s higher education sector, as academic unions across the country intensify calls for improved funding, better welfare, and full implementation of existing agreements.