ASUP to begin indefinite strike tomorrow

There are indications that members of Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics (ASUP), in the country will begin a nationwide strike tomorrow.

A statement issued and signed by the President of the Union,  Usman Dutse which was made available to the Nation in Port Harcourt the Rivers state capital on Monday said the resolution was reach at ASUP 93rd National Executive Council(NEC), meeting held in Yaba college of Technology,  Lagos State last month.

The action is apparently in continuation of last year suspended strike by ASUP, to drive home the 10-point demand of the group.

Dutse who said that the failure of the Federal Government and the Minister of Education led by Alhj. Adamu Adamu to comply with the agreements reached  between the group and the FG,  through the minister last year was reason for the planned resumed industrial action, hinted that the action will be total and indefinite until all the demands of the group are met.

He said,  “It is in view of our union that the government has at beat paid lip service towards the solution of the issues that Led to the previous strike actions, leaving the union with no other alternative than to resume the suspended strike action.

“I am therefore directed to communicate the resolution of NEC of our union to the effect that our member’s nationwide shall be withdrawing their services from December 12, 2018 in a comprehensive and total strike, until the issues are satisfactorily addressed.” he stated.

Some the issues listed are the non-implementation of NEED ASSESSMENT report of 2014, as agreed with the minister at the meeting of October 2017, lack of seriousness in the renegotiation if the Union’s 2010 agreement.

“Non release of arrears of CONTISS 15, migration arrears for the lower cadre. Non release of arrears of promotions and shortfalls in personnel releases as well as nonpayment of allowances.”

Others he said include, “Nonpayment of salaries in many state owned polytechnics, nonpayment of union check off dues pension deductions and other statutory deductions from staff salaries to the appropriate bodies, continues victimization of union officers among others.

The group vowed never to allow themselves to be deceived again by the government.

He called on all his members across the country to withdraw their services from 12 midnight today (Tuesday) in full commencement of the action.