The lecturers’ strike at Niger Delta University (NDU), Amassoma, Bayelsa State, has entered its second month following the state government’s failure to implement the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) on October 30, 2024.
Dr. Oyinkepreye Bebeteidoh, chairman of NDU’s ASUU chapter, reiterated the union’s stance, highlighting unresolved issues such as inadequate funding, poor working conditions, and outstanding salary structures.
Speaking after a union meeting in Yenagoa last Wednesday, Bebeteidoh stated:
“Our commitment to the strike underscores our dedication to the future of education in Bayelsa State. This struggle is not only about the welfare of our members but also about ensuring quality education for our students. We cannot, in good conscience, return to teaching under the current conditions.”
The strike, which commenced on December 10, 2024, has brought all academic activities at the university to a standstill.
ASUU’s Key Demands:
- Salary Increment and Arrears: Implementation of a 25%/35% salary increase for members, with arrears from January 2023.
- Minimum Wage: Immediate implementation of the N80,000 minimum wage with consequential adjustments.
- Annual Step Increments: Full implementation and payment of arrears dating back to 2018.
- Promotion Arrears: Settlement of promotion arrears from 2018 to date.
- On-Campus Accommodation: Provision of residential facilities to alleviate commuting challenges.
- Staff Recruitment: Hiring of additional academic staff.
- Accreditation Support: Continuous funding to meet accreditation standards.
The union emphasized the urgency of the state government fulfilling the October 2024 MoU to prevent an extended disruption. While acknowledging the difficulties faced by students and their families, Bebeteidoh maintained that the strike is essential to secure a fair and sustainable education system.
“The responsibility now lies with the government. Further delays in implementing the MoU will have far-reaching consequences for students, faculty, and the entire education sector in Bayelsa State,” he added.
ASUU leaders urged the government to act with sincerity in addressing these concerns to end the crisis and restore normalcy at the university.
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