The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has refused to join the strike action by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) because strikes have only collapsed the university system.

National President of SSANU Samson Ugwoke who made the statement at the 22nd National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the association at the University of Abuja, said strike is meant to be a last resort after exploring all forms of dialogue.

Ugwoke said the association was engaging the government in a different way to attract better funding for the university system.

He said, "When we go on strike it is going to be total, nobody, not even the Vice Chancellor would be allowed any breathing space, so that is why we won't just embark upon it."

He however stressed that it is hoped that at the end of the dialogue with the government, both parties would reach an understanding.