The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) of the Imo State University, Owerri, has embarked an indefinite strike over the non- implementation of the 2025 ASUU- federal government agreement.
The union recalled that ASUU and the federal government on December 23, 2025, signed an agreement for enhanced welfare for academic staff and for other conditions of service in public universities scheduled to take effect from January 1, 2026.
ASUU stated that it had repeatedly called the on Imo State government to implement the agreement, but unfortunately, nearly eight months down the line nothing has changed at the university.
Expressing dismay that while implementation has commenced in some state-owned universities including those owned by Bauchi, Ekiti, Ogun, Osun and Sokoto States, ASUU said it is saddening that such has not happened at the IMSU despite repeated engagements with the university’s administration.
According to the union, it had issued a 21-day ultimatum before the decision to commence the indefinite strike.
This was contained in a statement issued on Monday and signed by the ASUU branch Chairman, Stephen Oguji, and Secretary, Lazarus Chikwendu, respectively, and made available to journalists in Owerri.
It noted that it’s deeply disappointing that while ASUU members have continued to discharge their duties with dedication and professionalism, the welfare commitments freely entered into by government remain neglected.
“This situation is unacceptable to ASUU-IMSU. ASUU-IMSU has therefore today, August 10, 2026, embarked on a total and indefinite strike and vows never to return to work until the agreement is fully implemented,” the union said.
The union called on the Imo State government as a matter of urgency to direct the immediate implementation of the 2025 ASUU-federal agreement.
“Continued delay serves no useful purpose and only heightens industrial tension.
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“We wish to state unequivocally that ASUU-IMSU remains committed to dialogue, consultation, and constructive engagement as the preferred mechanisms for resolving industrial disputes.
“However, our commitment to peaceful resolution should not be misconstrued as acquiescence to the continued denial of the legitimate welfare rights of our members.
“The union cannot continue to watch while our members are subjected to poor welfare conditions. We sincerely hope that good sense will prevail and that the relevant authorities will act expeditiously.
“We appreciate members of the press for your continued commitment to informing the public on the state of ASUU struggles,” the statement said.
