Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has called for an immediate suspension of the ongoing strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Niger Delta University (NDU). The governor made the appeal on Wednesday during the 148th meeting of the State Executive Council at the Government House in Yenagoa, following his return from annual leave.
The strike, which began on December 10, has raised concerns for the state government, as it disrupts academic activities at the institution. In his address, Governor Diri urged the lecturers to reconsider their stance and engage in dialogue with the government. He emphasized that the state's leadership is fully committed to resolving their grievances and ensuring the well-being of the university's teaching staff.
Governor Diri stated, "Strikes should be the last resort for any union. I implore ASUU to return to the negotiating table so that we can find a peaceful and lasting resolution. We value the contributions of our lecturers, and we are determined to enhance their welfare while prioritizing the future of our students."
The governor reiterated the importance of maintaining a stable academic environment, stressing the need for lecturers to consider the impact of the strike on the students and the institution as a whole. "Lecturers play a vital role in shaping the future of our young people. We must work together to safeguard the educational system," Diri added.
The state government has already made efforts to engage with ASUU leadership and is hopeful that discussions will lead to an amicable solution. Diri's remarks come amid growing frustration within the academic community, but he remains confident that a resolution is within reach through constructive dialogue.
Recall Niger Delta Connect reported that, Governor Diri also used the meeting to address other pressing issues affecting the state. One of the most critical concerns was the enforcement of Bayelsa's law prohibiting open grazing. The governor warned that violators would face serious consequences, calling on government agencies and community leaders to ensure strict compliance with the law.
"We banned open grazing in Bayelsa in 2022, and that ban remains in full force," Governor Diri declared. "It is illegal for herders to damage our farmlands, and any herder found violating this law will face the full force of the law. We will not tolerate this practice in our state."
Governor Diri also directed local government officials to work closely with community leaders to monitor and prevent the activities of cattle herders, particularly those from other parts of the country, who may try to enter the state’s agricultural zones.
In the same vein, the governor raised concerns about the harmful effects of bush burning, a practice common among some farmers in the region. He urged the Commissioner for Information to spearhead a public awareness campaign, promoting alternative, environmentally friendly farming methods that do not involve the destructive practice of burning.
"Bush burning not only threatens our environment but also poses serious risks to our economy. I call on our people to stop this dangerous practice and embrace more sustainable farming techniques," Governor Diri said.
Finally, Governor Diri expressed his gratitude to the people of Bayelsa for their support during his leave, emphasizing that the success of his administration relies on the collective efforts of the people. "Thank you for your steadfast support while I was away. Let us continue to work together for the development and prosperity of Bayelsa," he concluded.
