Academic activities have been grounded at the Cross River University of Education and Entrepreneurship (CRUUEE), Akamkpa, following the commencement of a 14-day industrial action by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU-UEE) branch of the institution.
The strike began on Thursday, September 10, 2026, after the expiration of a 14-day ultimatum issued to the university management and relevant government authorities to address the union’s demands.
In a statement signed by the Branch Chairperson, Comrade Valentine Ntui, Ph.D., and Secretary, Comrade Imoke Etorti, Ph.D., the union said none of its four cardinal demands had received substantive attention or resolution.
Among the demands is the correction of the implementation of the Consolidated University Academic Salary Structure (CONUASS) and payment of outstanding salary arrears owed to members.
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The union is also demanding the implementation of the 2025 Federal Government of Nigeria-ASUU agreement, particularly the component relating to the Consolidated Academic Training Allowance (CATA).
Other demands include the implementation of the harmonized 70-year retirement age for Professors and Associate Professors, as well as urgent intervention to tackle excessive workload and the critical shortage of academic staff at the university.
The union said the decision to embark on the industrial action followed resolutions reached at an Emergency National Executive Council meeting of ASUU held on September 5, 2026, and an Emergency Congress of the ASUU-UEE Akamkpa Branch held on September 9.
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“Following the resolution of the Emergency NEC of ASUU held on 5th September 2026, and the Emergency Congress of ASUU-UEE Akamkpa Branch held on 9th September 2026, the Branch hereby declares a fourteen-day industrial action,” the statement said.
The branch directed all its members to withdraw their services fully and faithfully observe the strike throughout its duration, pending what it described as a meaningful and satisfactory resolution of the issues in dispute.
Dr Ntui said the decision was not taken lightly, stressing that the union remained committed to dialogue and constructive engagement with the relevant authorities.
He urged members to remain united and disciplined while defending the welfare of academic staff and the integrity of the university system.
“We urge all members to remain united, disciplined and resolute as we collectively defend the dignity of our profession, the welfare of our members and the integrity of the University system,” he said.
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The industrial action is expected to disrupt academic activities at the newly established state university, with hundreds of students likely to be affected by the shutdown.
The union’s 14-day action has also renewed concerns over funding, staffing and the implementation of agreements in Nigeria’s university system, particularly in newly established institutions struggling with limited academic manpower and administrative challenges.
