The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Imo State University (IMSU) Chapter, commenced an indefinite strike on Friday, September 20.
A statement from ASUU-IMSU, signed by the chairman and secretary Odinakachukwu Ejiogu and Lazarus Chikwendu the strike is a result of lingering unresolved issues.
“The decision stems from several unresolved issues which have persisted for years and have affected the welfare of academic staff negatively” the statement reads.
It listed the following as their challenges:
- Promotions without financial benefits since 2016.
- ASUU-IMSU staff salary disparity with those of other comparable tertiary institutions.
- Undue delays in staff assessment and promotions.
- Non-repayment of earned academic allowance since 2009.
- Non-remittance of union check-off/welfare dues from February 2020 to September 2021.
- Non-remittance of pension deductions from May 2016 to date.
- Non-payment of annual increment in salaries.
- Inclusion of Imo State University in the Treasury Single Account (TSA).
- Funding of the university.
- Erosion of the university autonomy.
They included in the statement that they have gotten no response despite the numerous complaints through letters, rallies, meetings and press releases after which they had to take an action by embarking on the strike.
“We have made several attempts through letters, rallies, meetings and press releases and no concrete action has been taken by the university administration, governing council, or the visitor to the university. Our members have been patient.”
The statement also noted that they had issued 21 days notice to resolve the issues “but no solution came. We are now compelled to begin this indefinite strike to secure fair treatment and better working conditions”.
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