Just-In: FG asks VCs to reopen universities, resume

The Federal Government has directed Vice-Chancellors of Federal Universities to reopen and resume lectures.

The FG gave this directives on Monday through the National Universities Commission (NUC).

The letter, addressed to all vice-chancellors; pro-chancellors and chairmen of governing councils of federal universities, was signed by the Director, Finance and Accounts of the NUC, Sam Onazi on behalf of the Executive Secretary of the commission, Prof Abubakar Rasheed.

The letter reads; “Ensure that ASUU members immediately resume/commence lectures; Restore the daily activities and routines of the various University campuses.”

It would be recalled that last week, Minister of Labour and Employment, Senator Chris Ngige hinted that the government may direct the reopening of federal universities following the ruling of the National Industrial Court.

Recall also that the court had ordered the Academic Staff Union of Universities to return to work in line with section 17 of the Trade Dispute Act 2004.

However, on Friday, ASUU, through lawyers, filed an appeal and stay of execution of the NIC order.