The Academic Staff Union of Universities, Benue State University branch (ASUU-BSU), has officially announced an indefinite strike to address longstanding issues related to improved conditions of service. The decision was made public on February 1, 2024, during an emergency congress held at the Arts Theatre Complex.
The union declared the commencement of a “total, indefinite, and comprehensive strike” after the Benue State University (BSU) administration failed to meet the union’s demands, despite previous agreements made. The union had called off a similar strike on June 26, 2023, based on assurances from the state government and the university administration regarding the fulfillment of their demands.
The decision to resume the strike was jointly announced by the Branch Chairman, Comrade Kwaghfan Tarnongo, and the Secretary, Terrumun Gajir, with approval from the national body of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).
The statement released by the union emphasized the BSU Administration’s failure to address the welfare issues of its members, despite a tripartite agreement reached in January 2023 involving the Governing Council, BSU Administration, and Benue State Government. The agreement aimed to resolve concerns related to annual increments and promotions through increased financial support.
While acknowledging the Benue State Government’s commitment to fulfilling its part of the agreement by providing additional funds, the union expressed regret over the BSU Administration’s refusal to disburse the funds for staff entitlements, leading to the May 2023 strike by the branch.