LASU staff Unions begin indefinite strike over welfare demands

The Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, has been plunged into a complete shutdown as both academic and non-academic staff commenced an indefinite strike on Thursday, July 31, following a breakdown in negotiations over long-standing welfare concerns.

The industrial action is being coordinated by the Joint Action Committee (JAC) of staff unions, which comprises the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU), and the National Association of Academic Technologists (NAAT).

In a joint communiqué addressed to LASU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, the unions declared that no member would resume work “until their demands are fully met.”

“We have exhausted all channels of dialogue without results. The welfare of our members has been neglected for too long. This strike is total and indefinite,” the statement read.

The strike has led to a complete paralysis of academic and administrative operations across the university. From lecture halls to offices, activities at the Ojo main campus have been brought to a standstill.

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Eyewitnesses reported that union members barricaded major entry and exit points, effectively preventing access to students, staff, and visitors.

The atmosphere on campus remains tense, with security operatives monitoring the situation to prevent any breakdown of law and order.

As of press time, the university management has not issued an official statement in response to the action. Students and stakeholders remain uncertain about the immediate future of academic activities, with many calling for swift intervention.

The disruption has left many students stranded, with lectures, research work, and administrative services suspended indefinitely.

The development has prompted growing concern among stakeholders, including parents, students, and education advocates, who are urging the Lagos State Government and the university authorities to quickly address the situation before it escalates further.

“This strike, if prolonged, could have serious implications on the academic calendar and students’ welfare,” said a concerned parent.

The unions have insisted that until all welfare-related grievances—such as unpaid allowances, staff promotion arrears, and improved working conditions—are resolved, there will be no resumption.

This marks one of the most significant disruptions at LASU in recent years and underscores the recurring tensions between university staff unions and management over labour issues.