The National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT) has appealed to President Bola Tinubu for the unconditional release of withheld salaries. President Ibeji Nwokoma issued this appeal in a statement from Abuja.
The association strongly rejects the requirement of a Document of Understanding (DoU) as a precondition for releasing the withheld salaries of its members.
It’s worth noting that the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and other groups initiated an eight-month strike, which prompted the government to invoke a “no work, no pay” policy in 2022.
Ajuri Ngelale, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to President Tinubu, confirmed that the President had granted a partial waiver to tertiary institution staff. However, this partial waiver was granted on the condition that the Ministries of Education and Labour and Employment develop a Document of Understanding (DoU) as a prerequisite for the release of the withheld salaries.
Mr. Nwokoma expressed his deep concern and distress regarding this development. He acknowledged the President’s generosity in granting the partial waiver but vehemently opposed the requirement of a DoU, which, in his view, infringes on their fundamental human rights to freedom of expression and association, as guaranteed by the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He further highlighted that the work disruptions caused by the strike have already been compensated through additional work hours, and students have successfully graduated. The students are currently undergoing their mandatory National Youth Service programs, ensuring that nothing has been lost.
NAAT calls upon well-intentioned Nigerians to intervene and facilitate the full payment of the withheld salaries to achieve sustainable industrial harmony.
