Cross River Varsity Lecturers Begin Indefinite Strike Over Unpaid Allowances

The Academic Staff Union of Universities, University of Cross River State branch, has commenced an indefinite strike over alleged unpaid allowances, salary arrears, and the non-implementation of agreements reached with the Federal Government.

The union announced in a statement on Tuesday that the strike took effect from May 19, 2026, following what it described as the failure of the university management, governing council, and government to address its demands despite the commencement of implementation of the 2025 Federal Government/ASUU renegotiated agreement in January 2026.

The lecturers listed their demands to include the implementation of the salary structure and welfare benefits such as the Continuous Academic Training Allowance, Earned Academic Allowance, and professional allowances contained in the 2025 agreement, alongside payment of accrued arrears.

ASUU also demanded increased government funding for the institution and prompt payment of salaries no later than the third day of every succeeding month.

The union further called for the payment of unpaid salaries and arrears arising from the 35 per cent and 25 per cent wage award implemented in public universities since January 2023.

According to the statement, welfare levy deductions totalling N2.154 million made in 2024 and 2025 had not been remitted, while outstanding check-off dues owed to the branch and the national body since 2017 amounted to N11.8 million. The union also claimed that cooperative deductions amounting to N69 million remained unpaid.

Other demands include payment of outstanding promotion arrears estimated at over N1 billion, earned academic allowances amounting to N45 million accrued between July 2011 and December 2017, and remittance of unpaid National Housing Fund deductions allegedly withheld since 2018.

The union directed members to withdraw from all academic activities during the strike period, including teaching, academic meetings, and any contact with students. However, research and community service may continue.