UNILAG ASUU strike deepens as the university faults lecturers’ action but assures students that ongoing examinations will proceed
The management of University of Lagos on Wednesday criticised the campus chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities for declaring an industrial action without following due process, while assuring students that ongoing examinations would proceed as scheduled.
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The union’s branch at the university had directed its members to withdraw their services beginning Wednesday after a congress held on Tuesday.
Chairman of the union’s chapter, Idou Keinde, said lecturers received what he described as “amputated” salaries for January and February.
Keinde explained that the payments did not include the full components of the Consolidated Salary Structure for Academics, the Consolidated Academic Tools Allowance and the Professorial Allowance.
The union leader maintained that lecturers would not resume work until the outstanding salary components were fully paid.
However, the university management responded in a statement issued by its Head of Communication Unit, Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem, stating that the declaration of the industrial action did not follow established procedures.
Alaga-Ibraheem said the institution remained committed to constructive engagement with the union’s leadership to resolve the issues, particularly the unpaid Consolidated Academic Teaching Allowances.
“The management of the University of Lagos has noted reports circulating in the media that the Academic Staff Union of Universities, UNILAG Chapter, directed its members to suspend their services over alleged unpaid Consolidated Academic Teaching Allowances,” the statement said.
The university stressed that it would continue discussions with the union while prioritising the welfare of staff and students.
Management also reassured students that examinations already underway would continue despite the dispute.
According to the university, the academic session is at a critical stage, with semester examinations in progress.
Officials warned that any disruption could affect students scheduled to begin the Students’ Industrial Work Experience Scheme, internships and those preparing to proceed to the Nigerian Law School.
The statement added that any examination postponed by deans or heads of department would be rescheduled.
Management directed deans to ensure proper arrangements for the smooth conduct of examinations from Thursday, March 12, 2026.
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The university appealed to members of the academic community to remain calm and continue lawful academic activities while discussions with the union continue toward an amicable resolution.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
