The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has announced its readiness to shut down all public polytechnics across Nigeria following the Federal Government’s failure to address its demands.
The union, which has expressed growing frustration with the government’s inaction, has resolved to commence an indefinite strike starting December 2, 2024.
Speaking to journalists on Tuesday, the Chairman of ASUP’s Kaduna Polytechnic Chapter, Comrade Abubakar J. Abdullahi, reiterated the union’s position, emphasizing the need for urgent action to resolve the systemic challenges plaguing polytechnic education in the country.
This announcement follows a 15-day ultimatum issued by the union on October 6, 2024, outlining critical demands aimed at improving the state of polytechnic education. Despite the ultimatum, the government has yet to respond to the union’s concerns.
Comrade Abubakar listed key demands, including the release of the second tranche of the NEEDS Assessment Intervention Fund.
This fund is crucial for addressing infrastructural deficits and improving the quality of education in polytechnics.
He also called for the immediate implementation of the approved 25/35% salary review for polytechnic staff, a measure designed to enhance staff welfare and align their earnings with current economic realities.
Additionally, the union demands the payment of accrued salary arrears owed to its members, some of which have been outstanding for years.
“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,” Abubakar stated. He expressed disappointment over the lack of engagement or tangible progress, describing the government’s silence as a clear indication of neglect toward polytechnic education and its workforce.
Abubakar warned that the union would have no choice but to embark on a total shutdown of polytechnic institutions nationwide if the government fails to act promptly.
“The silence and inaction have left us with no option but to consider the possibility of a total shutdown of our institutions on December 2nd, 2024, should our concerns remain unaddressed,” he said.
The looming strike threatens to disrupt academic activities in public polytechnics, affecting thousands of students and staff across the country.
ASUP’s demands highlight long-standing issues in Nigeria’s polytechnic system, including inadequate funding, poor staff remuneration, and decaying infrastructure.
The union has called on the government to demonstrate its commitment to education by meeting these demands and averting a strike that could further destabilize the sector.
As December 2 approaches, the nation awaits a response from the Federal Government, with stakeholders urging a resolution to avoid another protracted shutdown in the education sector.
