A group of Alumni Associations of Nigerian Universities have warned that the lingering strike of the Academic Staff Union of Universities could lead to disastrous consequences for the nation.
In a letter on Monday, the group urged the Federal Government and ASUU to come together and resolve the impasse.
According tothe group, a situation where millions of students are locked out of campuses portends a grave danger for the county, disclosing that the all-time honoured aphorism that an idle brain is the devil’s workshop was instructive.
They called on government to ensure that the crises in the county are not further exacerbated by allowing these youths to be willing tools for social vices.
The Association called on the Presidency to wade into the matter as a matter of utmost concern so that all contending issues are speedily and expeditiously resolved.
On the other hand, the Association is pleading with the leadership of ASUU to sheath its sword and recall its members back to the universities as they have made their point.
The opinion of the members of the public generally is in favour of resumption of academic activities in the universities that have been closed for over six (6) months now.
ASUU has been on strike for more than six months.
The academics are seeking improved welfare, revitalisation of public universities and academic autonomy among other demands.
One bone of contention for the academics is the non-payment of university revitalisation funds, which amounts to about N1.1 trillion.
But the Federal Government has said it doesn’t have the money to pay such an amount, citing low oil prices during the Muhammadu Buhari administration.
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