ASUU suspends strike at Benue varsity after four weeks

The Academic Staff Union of Universities, Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, formerly the Federal University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Benue State, has suspended its four-week-old ‘No Pay, No Work’ strike.

The PUNCH had reported that the union embarked on the strike on August, 12, 2026, demanding the full payment of its members’ Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance and Professorial Allowance.

“We would like to say that at the time of this press release, the University has only paid the Consolidated Academic Staff Salaries and the Earned Academic Allowance components of the salaries to date.

“The remaining two components, Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance and Professorial Allowance, have only been paid in January and February 2026, while only 39 per cent of the CATA for March 2026 has also been paid. All these amounts to underpayment of salaries of members of ASUU,” according to a statement issued by the union’s chairperson, Terseer Abari, where the union embarked on a “comprehensive strike.”

However, in a statement made available to journalists on Sunday, Abari said that the suspension of the strike followed the progress recorded in the course of the struggle and the resolution of some of the issues that necessitated the industrial action.

“Consequently, the Congress directed all members of the branch to resume their official duties with effect from Friday, 11th September 2026.

“The outcome of the struggle demonstrated the strength of collective action, unity and determination in the pursuit of the legitimate interests and welfare of university workers,” the statement partly read.

It read further, “The branch expresses its appreciation to the university administration for its efforts and cooperation during the period of the industrial action.

“The branch looks forward to continued productive engagements and constructive collaboration with the university management on issues concerning the welfare and interests of members, as well as the overall development and progress of the university.”

While suspending the action, the branch reaffirmed its commitment to the union’s principles and traditions, and urged members to return to their duty posts with renewed commitment and dedication.

Abari said he appreciated the general public, students, stakeholders, and all well-meaning individuals and organisations for their understanding and support throughout the period of the struggle.

He, however, said that the union remains committed to defending the legitimate interests and welfare of its members within the framework of collective bargaining and constructive engagement.