By EMMANUEL ANTSWEN

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi (MOAUM), has suspended its seven-week strike after signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the Benue Government and the university management.

The suspension was announced in a statement on Wednesday signed by the Chairperson of ASUU-MOAUM, Dr Ali Ako, and made available to newsmen in Makurdi.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that ASUU-MOAUM had, on 1st June, commenced an indefinite strike action over unresolved welfare and governance issues affecting staff and the institution.

NAN also reports that the union had identified non-payment of pensions and gratuities to retired staff, absence of an effective health insurance scheme, irregular pension remittances and unpaid promotion arrears as some of the major grievances for their action

According to the statement, the suspension was approved by the National Executive Council (NEC) of ASUU after a tripartite agreement involving the union, the state government and the university administration.

Ako said the decision followed the successful conclusion of negotiations aimed at resolving issues that led to the strike.

He explained that the MoU reflects the commitment of all parties to address the concerns through constructive dialogue and mutual understanding.

“The union has demonstrated good faith and made sacrifices in the interest of the university community.

“We expect the Benue State Government and the university administration to reciprocate by faithfully implementing the terms of the MoU and respecting the principles of collective bargaining,” he said.

Ako said the union believed that lasting industrial harmony could only be achieved when agreements reached through negotiations were honoured promptly and in good faith.

He announced that the strike had been suspended with immediate effect and directed all academic staff to resume their official duties without delay.

The ASUU chairperson also appreciated members of the union, students, parents and the general public for their patience, understanding and solidarity throughout the period of the industrial action.

He reaffirmed the union’s commitment to protecting the welfare of its members while supporting the growth and development of the university through peaceful engagement and constructive dialogue. (NAN)