FCT secondary school union opts out of teachers’ strike

The Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS), Federal Capital Territory chapter, has distanced itself from the planned strike by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), declaring that its members will remain in classrooms.

Chairman of the union in the FCT, Julius Ogundiran, said secondary school teachers under ASUSS would not join the industrial action scheduled to begin today, stressing that the union operates independently and is not bound by NUT directives.

According to him, the decision is backed by constitutional provisions on freedom of association, which allow members to act outside the authority of other unions.

“Our members are not under the Nigeria Union of Teachers and will continue their duties without disruption,” he stated.

Ogundiran explained that some of the issues that triggered the strike, particularly those relating to promotions, have largely been addressed by the Office of the Head of Service and the relevant commission, with promotion letters already being issued in phases.

He added that ongoing engagements by the Joint Union Action Committee have also reduced the need for strike action among ASUSS members.

However, the union raised concerns over alleged harassment and intimidation of its members by individuals attempting to enforce compliance with the strike.

Ogundiran called on authorities to ensure adequate protection for teachers willing to work and to affirm their right to carry out their duties without interference.

He reaffirmed the union’s commitment to maintaining industrial peace and ensuring uninterrupted teaching in public secondary schools across the FCT.