NASU, SSANU Strike Grounds Activities in UNIBEN

The ongoing strike by the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) and the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) has effectively halted activities at the University of Benin (UNIBEN). This decision comes after a joint Congress convened at the university’s Ugbowo Campus, where union leaders announced the formation of a monitoring committee to ensure adherence to the strike directive.

The national bodies of both unions had earlier instructed their members to embark on an indefinite strike after the federal government failed to address their concerns regarding four months of unpaid salary arrears. This ongoing situation has resulted in the closure of key facilities, including the Library, Health Centre, and Sports Complex, restricting access to students. During this time, only private security personnel contracted by the university remained on duty at the main gate.

During the Congress meeting, Anthony Igbinosa, Chairman of UNIBEN NASU, expressed the frustration of union members. “The president instructed that we should receive at least 50 percent of what they owe us, which amounts to two months’ salary. We communicated this to our members, hopeful for a resolution,” he stated. He further pointed out the lack of action since the directive was issued on July 18, stating, “Despite assurances, we have been informed that the Minister of Finance is obstructing the president's orders. If the president is indeed serious, how can an appointee stand in the way of his directive?”

Broderick Osewa, the SSANU counterpart, echoed Igbinosa’s sentiments, emphasizing the necessity of a robust compliance mechanism. “To ensure adherence to the strike, we have decided to initiate a monitoring team that will oversee compliance across the university,” he affirmed.

As the strike continues, the future of academic and administrative activities at UNIBEN hangs in the balance, with union leaders advocating for immediate government action to resolve the salary disputes.