ASUP to Embark on Nationwide Strike Over Unresolved Grievances

The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has announced plans to shut down all polytechnics across Nigeria in response to the Federal Government’s failure to address critical issues affecting the sector. The decision was made during the Union’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja.

ASUP President, Comrade Kpanja Shammah, stated that the strike is a result of the government’s continued neglect of several pressing demands, particularly in areas of governance, salary issues, and infrastructural support for polytechnics.

The Union listed several key grievances which led to the decision to strike:

1. Impunity in Polytechnics Governance:ASUP decried the disrespect for provisions of the Federal Polytechnics Act and other regulatory frameworks, particularly regarding the appointment of Principal Officers in polytechnics. The Union cited recent examples of improper appointments, including the controversial appointment of a Rector at the Federal Polytechnic Nekede and a similar issue at the Federal Polytechnic Wannune.

2. Unresolved Schemes of Service:ASUP expressed dissatisfaction with the non-review of the contentious and suspended document, titled Schemes of Service for Polytechnics.

3. Unreleased NEEDS Assessment Funds: The Union criticized the failure of the government to release the 2023 NEEDS Assessment intervention funds, which are vital for the development and maintenance of polytechnic facilities.

4. Interference by NBTE: ASUP raised concerns about the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) interfering in the functions of Polytechnics’ Academic Boards, particularly in the admission of Higher National Diploma (HND) students.

5. Non-implementation of Salary Reviews: The Union pointed out that many state-owned polytechnics have failed to implement the 35/25% salary review for their staff. Additionally, ASUP cited the non-release of arrears related to the salary review in Federal Polytechnics.

ASUP’s leadership has reiterated its commitment to ensuring that these long-standing issues are addressed. The strike, according to the Union, is a final attempt to compel the government to resolve these systemic challenges. 

Members of ASUP are now gearing up for the nationwide strike action, which will see all polytechnics remain closed until their demands are met.