Following a 45-day shutdown of academic operations at the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), the local Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) is preparing for high-stakes negotiations with the Cross River state government. The union confirmed receiving an invitation from a specialized technical committee tasked with reviewing their grievances.
Dr. Patrick Ushie, the UNICROSS ASUU chapter chairman, confirmed that the union submitted detailed documentation of their demands on Tuesday to facilitate the upcoming dialogue. While expressing hope for a resolution, Dr. Ushie maintained that the strike will continue until the government satisfies all union requirements.
The industrial action began on May 19 due to 11 major issues, including unresolved welfare concerns, unpaid wages, and N11.9 million in unremitted dues. Although the institution’s management previously cited funding shortages—claiming they need an extra N200 million beyond their current N300 million subvention—the union insists on full compliance.
Governor Bassey Otu recently established a seven-member technical committee, chaired by Prof. Uduak Effiong, to evaluate staff conditions and governance. This committee is now central to the efforts to address the ongoing academic standstill.
