We’re not part of ASUU strike, say UniAbuja medical academics

The Nigerian Medical and Dental Academics (NAMDA) of the University of Abuja (UniAbuja) has distanced itself from the ongoing strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). 

On May 2, the varsity’s lecturers declared an indefinite strike over a lingering dispute with its management.

The dispute borders on four issues including ASUU’s interest in a multi-stakeholder microfinance bank, promotion procedures in the absence of a governing council, election for faculty deanship, and alleged illegal appointments.

Sylvanus Ugoh, chair of UniAbuja ASUU, told TheCable that the strike remains effective “until all the issues in contention are resolved”.

But in a recent statement jointly signed by Kolawole Olorunshola, NAMDA chairman, and Jonah Peter, the secretary, the academics said they “resolved not to be part of the ongoing strike by UniAbuja ASUU”.

The statement said members of NAMDA are currently teaching at the College of Health Sciences, UniAbuja.

“On behalf of the Nigerian Medical and Dental academics (NAMDA) University of Abuja branch, we write to inform you that NAMDA held a virtual emergency congress meeting on Saturday, the 4th of May, 2024,” the statement reads in part.

“Our members have resolved not to be part of the ongoing strike action declared by the University of Abuja ASUU members.

“As far as NAMDA members on this campus are concerned normal academic activities will continue in the College of Health Sciences, University of Abuja.

“Accept the assurances of our highest regard.”

Abdul-Rasheed Na’Allah, the vice-chancellor of UniAbuja, earlier said academic and administrative activities will continue on campus without disruption from ASUU.