ASUP Insists On December 2nd Nationwide Strike

ASUP Maintains Stand On December 2 Nationwide Strike

The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP) has maintained its plan to shut down all polytechnics across the country by December 2, citing the Federal Government’s failure to fulfil the demands of its members.

Naija News reports that the Kaduna chapter chairman of the union, Comrade Abubakar J. Abdullah, reaffirmed the union’s stand on Tuesday, noting that on October 6, 2024, the union’s leadership had issued a 15-day ultimatum to the Federal Government, which detailed critical demands intended to address the systemic issues impeding the advancement of polytechnics.

He further stated that the government has not taken action to resolve these matters.

During a press conference held on Tuesday in Kaduna, Abdullah enumerated several key demands, including the prompt disbursement of the second tranche of the NEEDS Assessment Intervention fund, the immediate implementation of the approved 25/35% salary review for all public polytechnics, and the settlement of outstanding arrears.

Additional demands include the resolution of long-standing CONTISS-15 migration arrears for lower cadres, the payment of pending promotion arrears, the need for increased funding, and the settlement of unpaid allowances.

“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. The silence and inaction have left us with no option but to consider the possibility of a total shutdown of our institutions, scheduled for December 2nd, 2024, should our concerns remain unaddressed,” he said.

Comrade Abdullahi emphasized that the sustainability and excellence of the educational system depend significantly on the government’s ability to respond effectively.

He expressed the union’s conviction that a robust education sector is essential for the nation’s future and that it is no longer possible to compromise on these critical matters.

He called upon the Federal Government to initiate constructive discussions with the union and to take decisive actions to address these pressing challenges.