The Federal Government on Monday withdrew its circular which ordered Vice-Chancellors, Pro-Chancellors and Governing Councils to re-open federal universities, in a bid to thwart amidst the strike by Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

An earlier circular tagged NUC/ES/138/Vol.64/135 was addressed to the university leaderships ordering them to re-open universities.

But, THE PUNCH reports that in another circular tagged NUC/ES/138/Vol.64/136, which was also signed by the Director, Finance and Account of the NUC, Sam Onazi, the Commission withdrew the order.

Though it did not explain why, the letter titled: “Withdrawal of Circular NUC/ES/138/Vol.64/135″ and dated September 23, 2022, read in part: “I have been directed to withdraw the NUC Circular Ref: NUC/ES/138/Vol.64/135, and dated September 23, 2022 on the above subject.

“Consequently, the said circular stands withdrawn. All Pro-Chancellors and Chairmen of governing councils, as well as Vice-Chancellors of federal universities are to please note. Further development and information would be communicated to all relevant stakeholders.

“Please accept the assurances of the Executive Secretary’s warmest regards.”