Members of the Senior Staffs Association of Nigerian Polytechnics at Federal Polytechnic, Ukana, in the Essien Udim Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, began a seven-day warning strike on Friday with a protest walk around the school grounds to advocate for their demands.
Following a brief congress meeting in the institution’s TEFfund auditorium, the workers started their protest.
They were disappointed with how poorly management had responded to their demands, which included, among other things, the non-payment of the 38% remaining balance of their salary shortfall, the non-payment of promotion arrears, and the forced conversion of staff members.
After leaving the congress, the demonstrators made their way directly to the Rector’s office, holding signs and singing patriotic songs as they demanded that their requests be carried out in full.
The signs had several messages on them, such as “SSANIP says no to unnecessary transfer of members,” “No to forceful conversion of staffs,” “Pay us our correct salary placement arrears (2015-2018) and other demands,” and “Pay us our 38% balance salary shortfall (2016-2018).”
What they’re saying
“Please record that I, the chairman of SSANIP at Federal Polytechnic, Ukana, am not in conflict with anyone,” he said
“SSANIP welfare is my main priority, and how can we talk about welfare unless they pay us our arrears?
“When we met with the management, they failed to provide us with a convincing reply against going on strike. We also emailed the interim rector, but she didn’t reply until the current rector, Dr. Uduak Ndaeyo, did, and even then, we received no firm answer.
“Congress has stated that our seven-day ultimatum is still in effect and that you must provide management 21 days, 14 days, and 7 days’ notice before beginning any industrial action. We have complied with this requirement.
“We’ve been begging for the last six months. How would you tell me that choosing a teacher for the role of ICT is the proper decision? By Monday, no offices will be open in this location. Daka threatened to shut down every office, including the rector’s.
Bottom Line
The chairman of SSANIP emphasizes their attempts to communicate with management through meetings and emails. Their frustration is evident given the lack of concrete response. It’s important to note that following protocol, they issued a 21-day, 14-day, and 7-day notice before taking strike action.
