Education
ASUP Announces Warning Strike
The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has declared a two-week warning strike, set to begin on December 2, 2024, over unresolved demands made to the federal government.
ASUP President, Kpanja Shammah, disclosed this during a press briefing following the union’s 112th National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja on Thursday, November 28.
The union accuses the federal government of failing to address 11 critical items agreed upon during previous negotiations. While some progress has been made, Shammah emphasized that most issues remain unresolved, citing government inaction on vital matters.
“Out of the 11 demands, only item four has been resolved, and item two is in progress. The remaining items are being ignored,” Shammah stated.
Key grievances include:
Disrespect for the Federal Polytechnics Act: ASUP accuses the government of impunity and disregard for governance provisions across federal and state-owned institutions.
Contentious Rectorship Appointments: The union highlighted irregularities in the appointment of rectors at Federal Polytechnics in Nekede and Wannune, Benue State.
NEEDS Assessment Funds: Non-release of intervention funds for 2023 remains a critical issue.
Schemes of Service Review: The union criticized the non-review of the suspended document titled “Schemes of Service for Polytechnics.”
Earlier, ASUP issued a 15-day ultimatum demanding immediate action from the government and relevant agencies to reverse decisions inconsistent with the Polytechnics Act. The lack of tangible progress has pushed the union to proceed with industrial action.
Shammah described the strike as a warning to the government to address these pressing issues or face the possibility of an indefinite shutdown of the polytechnic system.
“We hope the government will take swift action to resolve these issues, as our goal is to ensure a conducive teaching and learning environment. However, if the situation persists, an indefinite strike may become inevitable,” Shammah warned.
The ASUP President called for understanding and support from Nigerians, emphasizing that the strike aims to protect the integrity of the country’s polytechnic system and ensure quality education for students.
Send Us A Press Statement Advertise With Us Contact Us
And For More Nigerian News Visit GWG.NG
