The ongoing FCT teachers strike crisis has taken a new turn as secondary school educators have openly rejected the industrial action, raising fresh questions about its impact on schools in Abuja While many expected a total shutdown of classrooms, a key union has made it clear that learning will continue
The Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS), FCT chapter, says its members will not join the strike declared by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) Instead, they have pledged to remain in classrooms, ensuring students are not affected by the disruption
Secondary School Union Distances Itself from FCT Teachers Strike
The leadership of ASUSS in the Federal Capital Territory has officially dissociated itself from the planned strike action by the NUT According to the union, its members are not under the authority of the NUT and therefore are not obligated to comply with its directives
“We Are Independent” Union Leadership Speaks
Chairman of the union, Comrade Julius Ogundiran, emphasized that ASUSS operates as an independent professional body with its own structure and leadership He stated clearly that members have resolved to continue teaching without interruption
“Our members are not subject to the authority or directives of the Nigeria Union of Teachers They have resolved to remain at their duty posts,” he said
Why ASUSS Members Refused to Join the Strike
The union explained that some of the key issues that triggered the strike, particularly those relating to promotions, have already been addressed by the relevant authorities
According to Ogundiran, the Office of the Head of Service and other commissions have begun releasing promotion letters in batches, reducing the urgency for industrial action
Ongoing Engagements Made Strike Unnecessary
He added that discussions led by the Joint Union Action Committee have also helped resolve lingering concerns, making participation in the strike unnecessary for ASUSS members
Concerns Over Harassment and Intimidation
Despite their decision to remain in classrooms, the union raised serious concerns about the treatment of its members
There have been reports of intimidation and harassment by individuals allegedly trying to enforce compliance with the strike
ASUSS has called on authorities to step in and protect teachers who choose to continue working
Call for Protection and Uninterrupted Education
The union urged relevant government bodies to issue clear directives affirming the right of its members to work freely without interference
It also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining industrial harmony and ensuring that students in public secondary schools across the FCT do not suffer academic setbacks
With this development, the impact of the FCT teachers strike now appears divided, as some classrooms remain active while others may be affected
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