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The Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Chapter, has officially distanced itself from the indefinite strike
declared by the FCT Wing of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), creating a notable divide among education sector unions in the territory.
In a statement issued by the FCT leadership of ASUSS, the union clarified that it was neither consulted nor involved in the decision to embark on the strike action. The union emphasized its commitment to maintaining academic stability in secondary schools across the FCT and urged its members to continue their duties while dialogue and negotiations persist.
ASUSS leadership stressed that while it acknowledges the concerns raised by the NUT—particularly those relating to welfare, salary issues, and working conditions—it does not believe that an indefinite strike is the most effective approach at this time. Instead, the union advocated for sustained engagement with relevant authorities to achieve lasting solutions without disrupting students’ academic activities.
The development has introduced a mixed situation in FCT public schools, as primary school teachers under the NUT may comply with the strike directive, while secondary school teachers affiliated with ASUSS remain in classrooms. This divergence is expected to impact the overall coordination of academic activities within the territory.
Education stakeholders have expressed concern over the implications of the split, noting that inconsistent participation in industrial actions could create confusion among students and parents. However, some observers view ASUSS’s stance as a strategic move to balance advocacy with continuity in education.
Meanwhile, the FCT Administration has yet to issue a comprehensive response addressing the demands raised by the NUT, though calls for urgent dialogue have intensified. Analysts suggest that the situation underscores the need for harmonized communication and unified strategies among education unions to effectively address systemic challenges in the sector.
As discussions continue, parents and students across the FCT remain watchful, hoping for a swift resolution that will ensure both improved welfare for teachers and uninterrupted learning.
