Editorial
ASUU: No To NLC Strike
As part of efforts to compel the Federal Government to meet the demands of striking university-based unions, including the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and its affiliate unions, said it would embark on a two-day national solidarity protest tomorrow and Wednesday.
Labour’s threat follows the lack of progress in the negotiations with the leadership of the ASUU, Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU), and the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT). The NLC President, Ayuba Wabba, had directed all affiliate unions to comply with the directives on the planned protest at the National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the Congress.
It is sad that universities in the country have been shut down for five months following strike by the various unions over the alleged failure of the Federal Government to meet their demands. Given the protracted nature of the strike, President Muhammadu Buhari, last week, directed the Ministers of Education, Adamu Adamu; and Labour and Employment, Chris Ngige; to resolve the lingering strike by ASUU and report back to him within two weeks.
ASUU had embarked on a warning strike on February 14, 2022, which clandestinely metamorphosed into an indefinite industrial action, leading to the suspension of all academic activities in federal universities. Some state universities also joined in sympathy. Since then, efforts by the authorities and other stakeholders to resolve the impasse have failed.
At the centre of the strike are the alleged government’s failure to honour the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) it signed with the union, the government’s poor commitment to the payment of Earned Academic Allowance (EAA) and release of revitalisation funds, inadequate funding of the universities, the continued use of the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS) and refusal to adopt the University Transparency and Accountability Solution (UTAS), and proliferation of public universities in the country.
For its part, the Federal Government stated that it had implemented most of the contents of the agreements with the union. It said that substantial amounts have been released for EAA and revitalisation of the institutions while UTAS, according to the Nigeria Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has “passed acceptability test but failed integrity test and credibility test, which formed the bulwark against hacking”. The government, therefore, set up a seven-man Prof Nemi Briggs-led committee to renegotiate the 2009 pact. The committee is said to have submitted its report to the government for implementation.
This is not the first time organised labour has intervened in labour disputes in the nation’s Ivory Tower. In 2013, NLC mediated in an ASUU strike by writing to the Presidency to devise modalities to resolve the industrial action. In 2021, it again, played vital role to resolve the standoff between the Federal Government and ASUU for university students. The NLC has been making failed efforts to end the current strike. However, the propriety of this intervention remains questionable, particularly as it affects Rivers State.
We condemn the penchant for strikes, which has done incalculable damage to the educational development of the country. Since the return of democracy in 1999, ASUU has spent, at least, 1,500 days on strike. The quick resort to strikes by ASUU members is irrational since the union can as well adopt other proactive and constructive alternatives. We are worried that for a country with over 40 million out-of-school children, prolonged stay out of tertiary institutions by youths will fill the growing crime pool. ASUU has to realise this fact and quickly suspend the strike.
Labour’s planned solidarity protest must be taken seriously because if carried out, may shut down businesses and stoke anarchy, thereby compounding the nation’s feeble economy. Nothing can justify this! We implore labour to immediately rescind its decision, and allow government implement the committee’s report.
We say so for a number of reasons. First, it is not in all universities that ASUU and other unions are on strike, especially state and private institutions. In these institutions, including those in Rivers State, workers’ entitlements are paid as at when due and enabling environment created for seamless teaching and learning. Therefore, it is wrong to direct workers in those states, including Rivers State, to embark on any solidarity strike.
Besides, the NLC in some states, particularly Rivers State, has become political partisans, and their officials constituting themselves as opposition elements to destabilise the government. Allowing NLC in Rivers State to call out workers on strike obviously amounts to arming critical opposition to undermine the government, especially at a time when all eyes are exploring winning strategies for the 2023 elections. There are ample examples of efforts of the NLC in Rivers State to destabilize the state. Now that the Chairperson of NLC in the State is also doubling as the governorship candidate of Labour party, and the same person is calling out workers in the state to embark on strike even when all the state-owned tertiary institutions are fully functional, it is obvious that this is another means to subvert the efforts of the state government at maintaining an uninterrupted academic calendar.
Besides, hoodlums have many a time hijacked supposedly peaceful strikes to advance their nefarious activities. Shops have been looted and the economy subverted. Many innocent people have also lost their lives these circumstances. There is also the likelihood that opposition politicians may hide under the cloak of labour to unleash violence on the people and jeopardize the peace that is currently prevailing in Rivers State. This is why it will be suicidal for workers in Rivers State to be used to fight government at this time.
Again, while we blame the Federal Government for the poor funding of universities, we boldly caution that it is not the mandate of ASUU, an assemblage of employees to dictate for its employers how and when to fund their own institutions. If they are not satisfied with their conditions of service, they should resign and seek better opportunities elsewhere rather than crippling the nation in order to satisfy their desires.
Nigeria cannot keep establishing universities when it has failed to maintain the existing ones. During President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration, 12 universities were established. Today, all are struggling owing to paucity of funds. Despite this challenge, eight bills are currently being debated at the National Assembly for the establishment of more universities. This is proliferation without growth. Yes, it is unacceptable but it does not require any industrial action to resolve.
The Education 2030 Framework for Action proposed two benchmarks as ‘crucial reference points’: allocate, at least, four to six per cent of GDP to education or apportion between 15 and 20 per cent of public expenditure to education. Government at all levels needs to meet these projections.
Even so, rather than enter into unworkable pacts with the unions, governments need to review the funding patterns of the universities. It is unthinkable that they alone can finance the institutions. In the United States, revenue from federal and state sources made up 34 per cent of total revenue at public colleges and universities in 2017, with other funding coming from tuition and fees, private gifts, self-supporting operations, and other sources. Nigeria can adopt this model to end the unending strikes.
Nigerians are outraged by the Federal Government’s approval of a 50 per cent increase in telecommunications tariffs, with organised labour threatening to mobilise workers to boycott telecom services. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have described the upcoming tariff as outrageous, lamenting that it will worsen the already harsh living conditions of workers and the masses.
Similarly, the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) rejected the hike, stating that it was ill-timed and did not take into consideration the struggles of Nigerians. The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) also criticised the review, calling it an illegal, unconstitutional, and oppressive policy that undermines the fundamental rights and freedoms of Nigerians. It is a difficult moment for the industry.
Recall that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) approved a 50 per cent increase in tariffs for telecom operators last Monday, instead of the 100 per cent raise that operators had requested. This decision quickly angered the consumers’ association, which criticised the government’s approval as not only punitive but also insensitive.
We wholeheartedly agree with the stance of labour and other groups on this very sensitive matter. We unequivocally condemn the 50 per cent increase in telecom tariffs. Though telecom operators cite higher operational costs and inflation as reasons for the hike, the timing and impact raise serious concerns in the current economic situation. It is a blatant attack on the well-being of the Nigerian worker and a betrayal of the people to corporate interests.
Telecommunication services are essential for daily communication, work, and access to information. However, the average Nigerian worker already spends approximately 10 per cent of their wages on telecom charges. For a worker earning the current minimum wage of N70,000, this means an increase from N7,000 to a staggering N10,500 per month or 15 per cent of their salary, a cost that is unsustainable.
This hike exemplifies the government’s apparent ease in prioritising corporate profits over citizens’ welfare. It is shocking that the government approved a 50 per cent tariff increase for telecom companies within a month, yet took nearly a year to approve the recent minimum wage for workers, despite the rising cost of living and inflation eroding purchasing power.
The questions are: When will the government stand up for the citizens it swore to protect? When will the National Assembly rise to its responsibility and hold the Executive accountable for policies that blatantly undermine the welfare of the majority? When will the common man finally heave a sigh of relief in Nigeria? We urge the government, the NCC, and the National Assembly to review the implementation of this ill-advised increase.
It is difficult to understand the state of mind of the managers of the nation’s economy. Sadly, these managers have alienated themselves from the reality of today. How can a government approve a 50 per cent hike in the tariff of telecom services when even the N70,000 minimum wage has been eroded by inflation, electricity tariff hikes, exorbitant fuel costs, transportation, and other social services?
Even if there is a need for an increase, why does it have to be 50 per cent? If, after dialogue, it is agreed that a raise is necessary, we should all consider a more reasonable increase rather than the 50 per cent hike. Fifty per cent is excessive and will only worsen the already harsh living conditions of workers, placing a heavier burden and more suffering on them and the general population.
The recognition of telecommunication services as essential components of modern society cannot be overstated. In an era characterised by rapid digital transformation, these services are fundamental not only for personal communication but also for facilitating broader socio-economic engagement. The proposed tariffs increase in the telecom sector raises critical concerns regarding equitable access to vital services that support communication, education, healthcare, and commerce.
In a democracy, the people should be the central focus of all government actions and policies. Every decision should aim to improve their quality of life. This plan must be carefully scrutinised with the welfare of citizens in mind. An increase in telecom tariffs will negatively impact many Nigerians, as the internet has become an essential tool for business, communication, and daily activities.
The Tide calls for the immediate suspension of the 50 per cent hike in tariffs. Instead, we recommend a more reasonable adjustment of a maximum of 10 per cent, which balances industry sustainability with the current economic realities in the country. We also demand that the NCC engages in genuine, inclusive consultations with consumer advocacy groups, civil society organisations, and other grassroots stakeholders before implementing any tariff adjustments.
Born on January 28, 1975, in Opobo Town, Mr. and Mrs. Joseph and Love Fubara welcomed their second of five children and first son. His father, a former soldier who completed an overseas training tour of duty, instilled in him a strong sense of discipline and dedication. His mother, a civil servant, taught him the importance of hard work and perseverance.
He received his primary education at Opobo Primary School and continued his studies at Comprehensive Secondary School in Opobo. His passion for numbers led him to pursue a degree in Accountancy at the then Rivers State University of Science and Technology, now known as Rivers State University.
Upon completion of his Bachelor’s degree, he pursued further education and obtained a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Master of Science (MSc) from the prestigious University of Port Harcourt in 2013 and 2016, respectively. Fubara’s dedication to his studies and his commitment to personal growth have shaped him into the accomplished individual he is today.
Sim, fondly called by his colleagues, started his career in 2003 as a principal accountant at the Rivers State Senior Secondary Schools Board. His dedication led to his promotion to Director of Finance and Accounts at the Government House in 2015. In March 2020, he was appointed Permanent Secretary and then became the Accountant-General of Rivers State on December 23, 2020.
His achievements are numerous, as he is a Knight of the St. Christopher (KSC) Order of the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion. Additionally, he holds the prestigious traditional chieftaincy title of Amaopusenibo of Opobo Kingdom. The Governor’s commitment to family is evident through his marriage to Valerie Ibiere Fubara, with whom he shares three beautiful children.
Among Siminalayi’s other significant qualifications and accomplishments are his fellowship with the Nigerian Institute of Management and his fellowship with the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN). He holds membership in the Chartered Institute of Forensic and Investigative Auditors. His impressive background has gained him the trust and support of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), leading to his victory in the party’s governorship primaries for the 2023 general elections.
Fubara embodies a leadership style defined by simplicity and compassion. He exhibits patience, confidence, and empathy in his interactions with those he serves. His humility and faith in God make him trustworthy. Representing the younger generation, Sim leads with the slogan “Consolidating and Continuing the New Rivers Vision,” focusing on developing infrastructure, healthcare, education, security, agriculture, and investment opportunities for Rivers State.
The bravery exhibited by His Excellency in resisting godfatherism has attracted respect from a wide array of Nigerians, Africans, and supporters of democracy around the world. He emphasises serving the interests of the people of Rivers over any godfather. His actions unify diverse groups in the state, promoting a sense of belonging among various ethnicities.
Our affable Governor exemplifies robust moral leadership rooted in his Christian beliefs. As a devoted Knight, he shows compassion and selflessness in his governance. He fosters an environment where all religions can peacefully coexist. Fubara sponsored Muslim pilgrims for the 2024 Hajj and personally wished them well, encouraging them to pray for the state and Nigeria. His religious tolerance has earned him respect among Nigerians who value coexistence.
Moreover, the Governor’s appealing physique and charming smile have garnered admiration from many Nigerians, who view physical beauty as a reflection of inner qualities. His tall stature has solidified his status as a revered figure, commanding respect across the nation. Fubara has shown dedication to women’s issues by initiating several programmes in collaboration with the Women Affairs Ministry and the Office of the First Lady, highlighting his strong commitment to women’s empowerment and gender equality.
Sir Fubara has focused on actively involving young people in his governance by launching entrepreneurship and training schemes, notably the Rivers State Youth Empowerment Scheme. His efforts to support youth have earned him the backing of many young Nigerians. Additionally, he provides scholarships and makes donations to orphanages, demonstrating his commitment to investing in education for the benefit of children in the state.
Known for his strong commitment to national unity, this Governor reaches out to Nigerians from various backgrounds. As a state Governor, he demonstrates great nationalism by supporting citizens from other states, especially in Rivers. He respects the rule of law and democratic values, which has enabled past local government chairmen to complete their terms without issues. His effective management of Rivers State’s resources promotes transparency and accountability.
Despite facing numerous distractions, the Rivers Chief Executive has made remarkable strides in steering the state’s affairs, reflecting his unwavering focus and commitment to delivering results. He has encountered challenges but remains dedicated to his vision for a better state. His peaceful and caring leadership style has made him popular, inspiring new leaders to emulate similar qualities. By being strong yet compassionate, he has redefined the concept of leadership. Fubara’s selfless nature prioritises the state’s needs above his own. This has earned him widespread support.
As he commemorates his Golden Jubilee birthday today, even the most ardent critics, adversaries, and accusers cannot overlook that he embodies a worthy precursor in every sense.
Happy Birthday, His Excellency!
