By Oluwakemi Kindness
The House of Representatives has mandated its Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, to lead an urgent intervention between the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), following the union’s declaration of a two-week warning strike.
The resolution at Tuesday’s plenary followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by Sesi Whingah, which drew attention to the recurring disputes between the federal government and university lecturers over issues of revitalization funding, earned academic allowances, salary structure, and university autonomy.
While presenting the motion, Whengah warned that the so-called “warning strike” could escalate into another prolonged shutdown of Nigerian universities if not swiftly addressed.
He noted that repeated disruptions have continued to derail academic calendars, frustrate students and parents, and undermine research and innovation.
The lawmaker reminded the House that education, under Section 18 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), remains a constitutional driver of national development and social progress.
Adopting the motion, the House resolved to set up an Ad Hoc Committee on ASUU-related matters, to be chaired by the Speaker, to facilitate a transparent and lasting agreement between both parties.
Members stressed that the legislature must serve as a neutral facilitator to safeguard the nation’s higher education system and prevent further disruptions.
The Speaker, in closing remarks, urged all parties to exercise restraint and prioritize the interests of students and national development over all other considerations.
