The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has condemned the Federal Government’s threats to implement a “No Work, No Pay” policy against striking university lecturers, asserting that such intimidation will not resolve the ongoing crisis in public tertiary institutions.
NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero stated that the two-week warning strike declared by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) is a legitimate response to the government’s continuous failure to honor agreements made with the union. Ajaero emphasized that the ongoing crisis in Nigeria’s public education system stems from chronic underfunding and the government’s disregard for previously signed agreements.
The NLC criticized the government’s approach, arguing that the strike is not an act of defiance but a rightful response to years of neglect. Ajaero stated, “The breach of contract lies with the state, not the scholars,” pointing out that lecturers are willing to work but are hindered by the government’s failure to meet its obligations.
He further declared total solidarity with ASUU and warned that if the government does not address the core issues after the warning strike, the NLC will convene an emergency meeting to develop a strategy for further engagement.
The NLC highlighted that the struggle for better public education is crucial for the future of Nigeria and called on the government to use this opportunity to present a concrete plan for the full implementation of all agreements. They firmly stated: “Honor the agreements and salvage public education, or face the resolute and unified force of the entire Nigerian workforce.”
