The Benue State University, BSU, chapter of the Academic Staff Union of University, ASUU, has commenced indefinite strike.
We gathered that the university gates were, as of Friday morning, under lock and key, preventing students and members of staff from gaining entrance into the two campuses. When contacted by newsmen, the BSU ASUU Chairman, Dr Kwaehfan Tarmombo, confirmed the development. He said the strike is indefinite, total and comprehensive. Although he failed to reveal details of what triggered the strike action, the Chairman said it was due to “several problems”, with the university administration.
However, a senior lecturer in the university, Dr John Ogi of the Department of Mass Communication, said the university management locked the gates to prevent ASUU members from having their scheduled congress. He said, “The Academic Staff Union of Universities, Benue State University Branch had at early hours of Friday scheduled a congress which was to brief her members of the directive from National Branch of ASUU.
“On getting to the gates of the university this morning all entrances to the university were under lock to prevent ASUU members from gaining entry into the campus.
“The drama which went on for few minutes at the gate necessitated to the declaration of strike action right at the gate. “The Chairman ASUU BSU made the pronouncement of the strike and ASUU members sang the solidarity song”.