The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has announced a two-week warning strike set to begin on December 2, 2024. The decision comes after the Federal Government’s failure to address an 11-point demand list, which includes allegations of procedural violations in the appointment of Rectors at Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, and Federal Polytechnic, Wannune.
ASUP President Kpanja Shamnah disclosed this decision during a press briefing following the union’s 112th National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja. He emphasized that the union had previously issued a 15-day ultimatum urging the government to address issues undermining the sector or face industrial action.
Key Issues Raised by ASUP
1. Violation of Appointment Processes: Alleged disregard for the Federal Polytechnics Act in appointing Rectors.
2. Stalled Policy Implementation: Non-review of the contentious Schemes of Service for Polytechnics.
3. Unmet Financial Obligations: Delayed release of NEEDS Assessment intervention funds for 2023.
4. Governance Interference: Encroachment by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) into academic board functions, including admissions.
5. Salary and Allowance Discrepancies: Non-payment of arrears related to the 35/25% salary review and non-capture of peculiar academic allowances in the post-IPPIS era.
Strike Resolution
According to Kpanja, the NEC resolved to commence a two-week warning strike, stating:
“This shall serve as a warning to the government to resolve the issues listed or be held responsible for an indefinite action going forward.”
The union urged the government to promptly address these concerns to prevent a prolonged disruption in the polytechnic education system.
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