Some business operators at the University of Port Harcourt, have lamented the adverse effects on their businesses, the continued nationwide strike embarked upon by the Academic Staff Union of University (ASUU).
The business owners on Wednesday in Choba said the ongoing strike is worrisome.
According to them, economic and social activities in and outside the school premises have been paralysed just as most shops and business centres are either locked or witnessing low sales.
The National President of ASUU, Prof Biodun Ogunyemi had on Nov. 5 called for an indefinite strike involving both the federal and state-owned universities.
The strike follows allegation of failure of the Federal Government to implement Memorandum of Action (MOA) signed with it in 2017.
Mrs Chinwo Jackson, who owns a restaurant at the Abuja Campus lamented the situation. She said her shop had lacked patronage since the commencement of the industrial action.
“The ongoing strike is regrettable, you know when the university is not operating our businesses are bound to suffer because only a few people patronise us.
“We pray that the efforts of the government to solve the problems with the unions will yield tangible results so that we can fully return to business,” she said.
Mr Ike Okonkwo, who operates a business centre also lamented the drop in economic activities, adding that since the strike started, business had dropped considerably.
“The Federal Government should take into consideration the plight of Nigerian students and find a lasting solution to the problem.
“I plead with the union to also call off the strike and give room for dialogue in the interest of education sector,” Yusuf said.
Mrs Enang Bassey, owner of a relaxation spot said, “Business was thriving until the strike started and most of us have invested here due to the population.’’
“The education sector is one particular area that should receive a prompt and adequate response because when the people are educated, it will reflect on the nation’s economy.”
Also, Mr John Ike, a commercial vehicle operator appealed to ASUU to call off the strike, he said that the masses always suffered from its consequences.
“Our prayer is that the school should resume its activities so that our businesses will bounce back, we also urge the stakeholders to resolve these issues,” he said.
