The Nigerian government on Monday reversed an order handed to striking universities to reopen schools and return to class following a court order.
Federal Government agency, National Universities Commission, (NUC) through a circular issued to vice-chancellors nullified the earlier order.
Chronicle NG reports that a circular marked NUC/ES/138/Vol.64/135 was earlier addressed to vice-chancellors, pro-chancellors and chairmen of governing councils of federal universities ordering them to re-open their schools.
In a twist, another circular marked NUC/ES/138/Vol.64/136 and signed by the Director, Finance and Account of the NUC, Sam Onazi was sent to the university management to reverse the earlier order.
Marked withdrawal of circular NUC/ES/138/Vol.64/135 dated September 23, 2022” it reads, “I have been directed to withdraw the NUC Circular Ref: NUC/ES/138/Vol.64/135, and dated September 23, 2022 on the above
subject.
“Consequently, the said circular stands withdrawn. All pro-chancellors and chairmen of governing councils, as well as vice-chancellors of federal universities are to please note. Further development and information would be communicated to all relevant stakeholders.
“Please accept the assurances of the Executive Secretary’s warmest regards.”
Chronicle NG reports that the National Industrial Court of Nigeria (NICN) had on September 25 ordered the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), to call off its ongoing strike.
Ruling on the application brought by the applicant (federal government), Justice Polycarp Hamman held that since the issues in dispute have been referred to the court, ASUU (the defendants) should not to take part in any further strike, pending the determination of the substantive suit.
