By DAYO ADESULU
The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has announced a two-week warning strike starting December 2, 2024, citing the government’s failure to address its eleven-point demand list.
Key Issues Raised by ASUP
At the conclusion of its 112th National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja, ASUP President Kpanja Shamnah outlined the union’s grievances, including:
- Irregular Appointments of Rectors:
- Alleged violations of the Federal Polytechnics Act in appointing Rectors at Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, and Federal Polytechnic, Wannune.
- ASUP has demanded adherence to due process in all appointments.
- Non-Review of Schemes of Service:
- The suspended and contentious document remains unresolved, stalling clarity on employment terms for polytechnic staff.
- NEEDS Assessment Intervention Funds:
- The federal government has failed to release 2023 funds meant for infrastructure and development in polytechnics.
- National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) Overreach:
- ASUP claims the NBTE has intruded on the autonomy of Academic Boards in student admissions, particularly for Higher National Diploma (HND) programs.
- Peculiar Academic Allowances:
- The union seeks the inclusion of these allowances in the proposed post-IPPIS payment system.
- Salary Review Implementation:
- Most state polytechnics have failed to implement the approved 35/25 percent salary increment for academic staff.
ASUP’s Ultimatum and Strike Decision
ASUP had issued a 15-day ultimatum to the government to address its demands. With no resolution in sight, the union has resolved to commence a two-week warning strike as a precursor to an indefinite action if the issues remain unresolved.
“This strike serves as a warning to the government to resolve the listed issues or face an indefinite action going forward,” said Shamnah.
Background of the Dispute
The union has consistently expressed concerns over governance lapses in polytechnics, particularly in the appointment of principal officers, funding inadequacies, and the lack of policy reviews. The alleged misconduct in the Rector selection process at Nekede and Wannune has become a flashpoint for ASUP’s broader advocacy for systemic reform.
Impact on Education and Policy
- Academic Disruptions: Classes and academic activities across federal and state polytechnics will halt during the strike.
- Sector Reform Advocacy: The strike amplifies the call for adherence to governance laws and improved funding for polytechnics.
- Government Response: A swift resolution may prevent a prolonged strike, but failure to act risks further disruptions to the education sector.
