ASUU Strike: Abia Govt Says ABSU Chapter to Resume Work Soon

The Abia State Government says the Abia State University (ABSU) chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) will soon suspend its industrial action following the resolution of issues that led to the strike through the intervention of the state government.

The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, stated this while briefing journalists on the outcome of this week’s Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti. He said the administration remained committed to constructive engagement with ASUU and other organised labour unions.

Prince Kanu said the industrial action was triggered by concerns relating to staff welfare, including outstanding check-off dues and salary-related matters. He noted that Governor Otti had approved the union’s demands as far back as April 2026, but implementation was delayed by administrative processes.

He said the issues surrounding the industrial action were resolved following the intervention of the committee led by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), with outstanding check-off dues subsequently paid.

The Commissioner said a new salary scale, incorporating the Consolidated Academic and Student Teaching Allowance (CASTA) and other related payments, had been addressed and would be reflected in the August 2026 salaries of the affected workers.

According to Prince Kanu, the new salary scale for other staff of Abia State University had also been processed and would be implemented this month, noting that the development further demonstrated Governor Otti’s commitment to the welfare of workers.

Prince Kanu added that the Governor’s immediate directive that the matter be resolved within 48 hours, despite the necessary approvals having been granted since April, demonstrated his responsiveness to legitimate workers’ concerns.