Academic activities at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), have been brought to a halt following an indefinite strike declared by lecturers over the non-payment of salaries.
The institution’s lecturers, under the umbrella of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), announced the industrial action after authorities allegedly failed to respond to a letter demanding payment of outstanding entitlements.
The strike, which has grounded both academic and administrative activities, has left students worried about its impact on their studies.
In a letter jointly signed by Dr. Boluwaji Oshodi (Chairperson) and Dr. Olusegun Taiwo (Secretary), the union said its members would withdraw services until all outstanding salaries were settled.
“This decision follows the resolution of our congress on August 21. Members of ASUU-AAUA will not resume work until our salaries are paid,” the statement read.
Confirming the development, Dr. Oshodi stressed that the lecturers had embarked on a “total strike” and would not rescind their decision until their demands were met.
Efforts to reach the university’s spokesperson, Mr. Victor Akinpelumi, were unsuccessful as calls and text messages went unanswered.
Reacting to the situation, the Ondo State Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, dismissed claims that the government had abandoned the institution. He explained that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration had consistently released monthly subventions to all state-owned tertiary institutions, including AAUA.
Ajibefun added that the government was already taking steps to engage the striking lecturers with a view to resolving the crisis.
