The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Niger Delta University (NDU), Bayelsa State, has commenced an indefinite strike, accusing the state government of failing to honor previously signed agreements.
The strike, effective from December 10, 2024, was announced by ASUU NDU chairperson Dr. Lucky Bebeteidoh after a meeting at the union’s secretariat in Amassoma. He outlined the union’s demands, including:
1. Implementation of a 25/35% salary increment and payment of arrears from January 2023.
2. Enforcement of the ₦80,000 minimum wage.
3. Settlement of annual step increment arrears dating back to 2018.
4. Payment of promotion arrears from 2018.
5. Provision of on-campus residential accommodation for staff.
Union’s Frustration With Unfulfilled Promises
Dr. Bebeteidoh revealed that multiple letters were sent to the state government in May, July, and August, urging action on the 25/35% salary increment for NDU staff, but none were acknowledged. In August, the union initiated discussions on industrial action after its pleas for dialogue were ignored.
Although a visitation panel met with university representatives on October 30 and a Memorandum of Understanding was signed, the government allegedly failed to meet its commitments by the November 30 deadline. This prompted ASUU’s national trustees to approve the strike.
While teaching activities are suspended, Dr. Bebeteidoh clarified that lecturers would continue with research and community service.
“The teaching aspect is held back, but other academic duties will go on,” he said.
Thediscovererng.com reports that the industrial action adds to the growing tensions between the academic community and the Bayelsa State Government, with stakeholders calling for immediate intervention to resolve the impasse.
