Daud Olatunji
The League of Imams and Alfas, Ogun State, has expressed grave concern over the prolonged strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), warning that continued disruption of academic activities poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s future stability and development.
In a statement signed by its Secretary-General, Imam Tajudeen Adewunmi, the League said it could no longer remain silent as the education of millions of Nigerian youths “hangs perpetually in the balance due to unending disputes between the Federal Government and ASUU.”
The clerics lamented that the recurring industrial actions—rooted in the unresolved 2009 agreement—have inflicted deep social and economic scars on students, families, and the nation at large.
“Each round of strike leaves behind painful scars,” the statement read. “Students are trapped in prolonged academic calendars, parents are financially burdened by extra accommodation costs, and families endure emotional stress as the future of their children remains uncertain.
“Beyond this, idleness drives many youths into crime, drug abuse, and other vices that destabilize communities.”
The League warned that the continued instability in Nigeria’s tertiary education system undermines the country’s global competitiveness, fuels brain drain, and erodes public trust in government institutions.
“Every closure of our universities weakens the quality of education and cripples local economies around campuses. We are gradually destroying the moral and intellectual foundation of our nation,” the League cautioned.
While urging the Federal Government to show sincerity in addressing ASUU’s demands, the religious body appealed to both parties to adopt dialogue and compromise in the interest of national peace and progress.
“The Federal Government must urgently fulfil its obligations—ensure fair remuneration for lecturers, improve infrastructure, and fund research and innovation.
“At the same time, ASUU should pursue dialogue with sincerity and patriotism. Prolonged strikes only deepen the suffering of students, parents, and the nation,” Adewunmi said.
The League commended the Nigerian Senate for its recent intervention aimed at brokering peace between the two sides and urged lawmakers to ensure that negotiations lead to a “permanent and sustainable resolution.”
Reiterating that education remains the backbone of national development, the Imams warned that Nigeria “cannot continue to halt its academic calendar and still hope to progress.”
They concluded with a prayer for divine guidance for the nation’s leaders, saying, “We pray Almighty Allah to grant our leaders wisdom, patience, and sincerity of purpose.
“Let all stakeholders act urgently to restore stability to our universities—for the sake of our children, families, and the future of our dear nation.”
‘
‘Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
Leave a comment