The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has responded to the Federal Government’s ‘no work, no pay’ policy amid the ongoing two-week warning strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) by declaring a ‘no pay, no work’ directive. This decision comes as the NLC and several education sector unions have issued a four-week ultimatum for the government to conclude negotiations regarding the 2009 agreements.
The unions involved include ASUU, the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU), and others. They have resolved to collaborate in their efforts to address the ongoing issues within the sector.
NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero emphasized that the time for the government to sign agreements and then renege on them is over. He criticized the government for instigating crises that lead to strikes, stating, “We will not condone this act. All over the world, agreements are taken seriously.”
Ajaero outlined plans for a coordinated team to launch a national campaign focused on sustainable funding for education, in line with UNESCO’s recommendations. He highlighted the need for the government to send representatives with proper mandates to negotiations to avoid future conflicts.
The NLC has given the government four weeks to finalize discussions with ASUU and other unions. Ajaero warned that if negotiations are not concluded within this timeframe, the NLC will convene to take nationwide actions involving all unions.
He remarked, “The so-called policy of no work, no pay, should henceforth be no pay, no work. You can’t benefit from an action you instigated.” This statement underscores the unions’ determination to stand united against the government’s policies and to ensure the rights of workers are respected.
