FUNAAB NASU begins 7-day warning strike over ‘victimisation of members’

The Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) at the Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta (FUNAAB) has commenced a seven-day warning strike.

In a letter signed by Damola Adelekun, its senior assistant general secretary, and addressed to the institution’s vice-chancellor, the union said members will commence the strike on October 24.

In the letter, the union accused the management of the institution of operating “anti-NASU policies”.

“The union headquarters has been inundated with an avalanche of complaints against your exalted office over the statutory procedure of the welfare as the well-being of NASU members at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta,” it reads.

“This your anti-NASU policies and illegality can be deduced from the following among others: (a) undue interference in NASU activities (b) instigation of staff/members against the Union and its leadership (c) victimisation, stepping down, promotion and denial of career progression of Mr I.O. Odunjo (d) arbitrary arrest and detention of NASU members without any justification (e) suspension of four (4) NASU members as a result of their participation in 2019 National JAC of NASU and SSANU Industrial action etc.

“In view of the above, I am on the directive to inform your office and NASU members have been directed to proceed on a seven-day strike over the above issues listed and the industrial action is to commence on Monday, 24th October 2022.”

Reacting to the letter, Bola Adekola, the varsity’s registrar, urged the union to shelve the strike in the interest of the students and the institution.

“Management, therefore, appealed that the Union should stay action on the proposed strike by the Non-Academic Staff Union of Education and Associated Institutions, FUNAAB branch,” the registrar said.

“It was agreed that the university management will constitute a committee that will look into the issues with a view to reaching a mutual understanding on them.”