Gombe State Government Responds to PDP's Criticism Over GSU-ASUU Strike

The Gombe State Government has vehemently rejected the People's Democratic Party (PDP) support for the ongoing strike by the Gombe State University (GSU) chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). Ismaila Uba Misilli, Director-General of Press Affairs, labeled the PDP’s stance as deceptive and misleading.

The ASUU strike, which began early last week, revolves around long-standing unpaid welfare benefits. In response to PDP’s criticism of Governor Inuwa Yahaya's administration for allegedly failing to address these demands, Misilli accused the opposition of distorting facts to mislead the public.

Misilli emphasized that the PDP, which left behind a ₦950 million backlog in staff entitlements, should not criticize the current administration for issues inherited from their tenure. He highlighted several steps taken by Governor Yahaya to improve the university’s conditions, including resolving delays in salary payments, reducing tax burdens, settling a ₦250 million backlog of Earned Academic Allowances, and approving ₦265 million for promotion arrears.

Further, Misilli praised the government's decision to maintain tuition fees despite broader increases and establish a ₦10 billion Endowment Fund to support the university’s financial needs. The administration also launched a visitation panel to address GSU’s challenges, with ongoing efforts to implement its recommendations.

The Gombe State Government has expressed disappointment that ASUU initiated the strike without engaging in proper negotiations. Misilli urged ASUU to return to the negotiating table to avoid prolonging the strike, which impacts students and their families amidst national economic difficulties.

The government remains committed to enhancing tertiary education in Gombe State and calls for a collaborative approach to resolve the strike issues.