From Adanna Nnamani Abuja
The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has restated its resolve to embark on a nationwide strike, beginning from December 2, 2024.
Addressing journalists after the union’s 112th National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja, yesterday, ASUP President Kpanja Shammah, said several efforts to get the government to address the contentious issues have failed.
He outlined several grievances, including alleged violations of the Federal Polytechnic Act (amended 2019), mismanagement in the appointment of key officials, and non-fulfillment of government promises.
Shammah also cited instances of irregularities in the appointment of rectors, including the reappointment of Deputy Rectors who had exceeded their statutory six-month acting tenure. He alleged that such actions violate the law, which mandates adherence to due process in appointments.
The union president also criticized the government for failing to release the 2023 Needs Assessment Intervention Funds, which are critical for infrastructure development in polytechnics.
He further expressed dissatisfaction over the non-payment of salary arrears, promotion arrears, and academic allowances. The union also decried the lack of implementation of the 35 percent -25 percent salary review for state polytechnic staff.
Shammah accused government-aligned individuals of meddling in its operations, including seizing union properties, withholding union dues, and intimidating officials.
The ASUP president highlighted several cases where rectors were appointed without following the stipulated processes, including the controversial appointments in Federal Polytechnics in Damaturu, Nasarawa, and other institutions.
“We have done all within our powers to ensure that the issues were addressed but nothing has been done. We have no other option than to shut down the sector,” he said.
The union appealed for public understanding, noting that their demands are aimed at restoring stability and ensuring a conducive learning environment in the polytechnic sector.