The "No Work, No Pay" Rule and the ASUU Strike

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The industrial action embarked upon by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has assumed  a new dimension , as strong indications have emerged that the Federal Government may have implemented the “NO Work, No Pay” rule. By this, it is implied that the striking university lecturers may no longer be smiling to the bank at the end of the month, if they continue with their industrial action against the Federal Government for not implementing the agreement it reached with the body a couple of years ago.

Meanwhile, some members of ASUU have confirmed that their September salaries are yet to be paid, as against what was obtainable in previous months of the strike. It was however gathered that the government has passed a directive to the various universities governing councils to stop payment of salaries of the striking lecturers.

As the on-going strike action enters the fourth month, there is need for an urgent and a drastic step to be taken to forestall its adverse effect on the education sector. If this is not checked, it will result in fallen education standard and a great “deservice” to the youth- the leaders of tomorrow. Hence, the timely resolution of the impasse.

In conclusion, we therefore urge the Federal Government to reconsider and reverse its decision on the “No Work, No Pay” rule, in order to ensure a quick resolution with ASUU. I wish there was a “NO Performance, No Pay” rule for political office holders in Nigeria, as this will ginger and motivate them to deliver on their electioneering campaign promises made to the masses before they assumed office.

Let’s remember that education births knowledge, and knowledge is power!