Polytechnic lecturers threaten nationwide strike over unmet demands

The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has issued a stern warning to the Federal Government, threatening to shut down all polytechnics nationwide by December 2, 2024, if their pressing demands are not met.

This ultimatum was issued by the Chairman of ASUP, Kaduna Polytechnic Chapter, Comrade Abubakar J. Abdullah, during a news briefing in Kaduna on Tuesday.

According to Comrade Abdullah, the union leadership had given the Federal Government a 15-day ultimatum on October 6, 2024, outlining several demands aimed at resolving the systemic challenges facing polytechnics in the country.

However, the government has failed to address these issues, prompting the union to consider a nationwide strike.

The union’s demands include the swift release of the second tranche of the NEEDS Assessment Intervention fund, immediate implementation of the approved 25/35% salary review across all public polytechnics, and the payment of accrued arrears.

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Other demands include the release and final resolution of the decades-long arrears of CONTISS-15 migration for lower cadres, the release of outstanding promotion arrears, addressing inadequate funding, and resolving the issue of unpaid allowances.

Comrade Abdullah expressed his disappointment and frustration with the government’s inaction, stating, “Regrettably, as we passed the deadline of this ultimatum, we are yet to see the necessary actions from the Federal Government to address these pressing demands. The silence and inaction have left us with no option but to consider the possibility of a total shutdown of our institutions, scheduled for December 2nd, 2024, should our concerns remain unaddressed.”

The ASUP chairman emphasized that the survival and quality of the educational system depend on the government’s responsiveness to their demands.

He urged the Federal Government to engage in meaningful dialogue with the union and take decisive steps towards resolving these challenges.

“We believe that a strong education sector is vital for the future of our nation, and we cannot afford to compromise on these issues any longer,” he said.

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