Academic and non-academic activities have come to a standstill at Lagos State University (LASU) as staff unions launch an indefinite strike, citing unresolved welfare grievances with the university’s management.
The strike, which began on Thursday, July 31, was declared after an emergency meeting of the university’s Joint Action Committee (JAC), comprising four key unions: the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU), and the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT).
In a letter dated July 31 and addressed to the Vice Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, the unions announced that all staff had been instructed to immediately cease work and vacate their duty posts, affecting not only the main campus but also the College of Medicine (LASUCOM) and the Epe campus.
“The strike action will be in force INDEFINITELY until all the demands of staff members are met by the appropriate authorities,” the statement read.
Union leaders described the decision as unanimous and emphasized that the indefinite action was the result of prolonged neglect of staff welfare issues by the university authorities.
Although specific demands were not detailed in the public letter, insiders say they relate to unpaid entitlements, improved working conditions, and the implementation of prior agreements.
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The shutdown has disrupted lectures, research activities, and administrative functions. Students, particularly those preparing for final year assessments and post-UTME screenings, expressed concern over the timing and potential academic delays.
“I just paid for my JUPEB form and now everything is on hold,” said Temitope Adekunle, a prospective LASU student. “Nobody knows how long this will last.”
As of the time of this report, the university management has not issued an official response to the strike.
However, a senior official who requested anonymity said the administration was in talks with the unions and hoped to resolve the dispute swiftly.
The LASU strike adds to the growing unrest in Nigeria’s tertiary education sector, where disputes over salaries, funding, and welfare continue to disrupt learning.