The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has announced a two-week warning strike starting on December 2, 2024, in protest against the government’s failure to address its 11-point demands.
At the core of ASUP’s grievances is the alleged breach of the Federal Polytechnics Act in appointing a Rector at the Federal Polytechnic, Nekede, Imo State, and similar violations at the Federal Polytechnic, Wannune, Benue State. The union has accused authorities of disregarding due process and governance standards in the polytechnic sector.
ASUP President, Kpanja Shamnah, disclosed the decision during a press briefing at the conclusion of the union’s 112th National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja.
Shamnah recalled that the union had previously issued a 15-day ultimatum to the Federal Government and relevant agencies to reverse actions inconsistent with the Polytechnics Act and governance protocols.
He stated, “Our NEC reviewed the lack of progress in addressing issues threatening the sector. Consequently, members nationwide will withdraw their services from December 2, 2024, for an initial two-week strike.”
Key issues raised by ASUP include:
- Breaches in the appointment process of principal officers at federal and state polytechnics.
- The unresolved review of the Schemes of Service for Polytechnics.
- Delays in the release of 2023 NEEDS Assessment funds.
- Interference by the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) in academic board functions, particularly admissions.
- Failure to capture academic allowances in post-IPPIS plans.
- Non-implementation of the 35%/25% salary review by state polytechnics and non-payment of arrears in federal polytechnics.
Shamnah warned that if the issues remain unresolved, the warning strike could escalate into an indefinite industrial action. He called on the government to act decisively to prevent further disruptions in the polytechnic education sector.