The ongoing strike by lecturers at the Niger Delta University, NDU, Amassoma, Bayelsa State, has persisted due to 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.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
Dr Oyinkepreye Bebeteidoh, chairman of NDU’s ASUU chapter reaffirmed the union’s stance, stating unresolved issues of inadequate funding, poor working conditions, and unresolved salary structures.
Speaking after a union meeting held in Yenagoa, Bebeteidoh stated that their commitment to the strike reflects their unwavering dedication to the future of education in Bayelsa State, saying it is a struggle not just for the rights of their members but for the quality of education that their students deserve.
He said, “We cannot, in good conscience, return to the classroom under the current circumstances.”
The strike, which began on December 10, 2024, has completely halted academic activities at the university with lecturers demanding the implementation of a 25%/35% salary increment for members, with arrears paid from January 2023 to date.
On Minimum wage, ASUU noted the consequential adjustments and immediate implementation of the N80,000 minimum wage for members while also demanding for full implementation and payment of arrears dating back to 2018.
It stressed the need for payment of promotion arrears from 2018 to date, provision of residential accommodation to reduce the burden and risks of commuting, recruitment of additional academic staff and the continuous funding for accreditation requirements.
The union emphasized the urgent need for the state government to fulfill the terms of the October 2024 MoU to avoid prolonging the strike.
Bebeteidoh acknowledged the hardships faced by students and their families due to the strike but insisted that the action was necessary to achieve an equitable and sustainable education system.
He stated that the ball is now in the government’s court as the longer it delays implementing the MoU, the more severe the implications will be for students, faculty members, and the broader education sector in Bayelsa State.
The ASUU leadership called on the government to demonstrate sincerity in addressing the pressing concerns to resolve the crisis and restore normalcy to the university.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
