The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) in Abia State has declared an indefinite strike starting Thursday, April 24.
This decision follows the state government’s failure to address long-standing demands despite multiple warnings.
Initially, the union issued a 14-day ultimatum on March 28 before delivering a final seven-day notice last week.
Teachers expressed frustration over unpaid minimum wage adjustments and exclusion from the Teachers Salary Structure (TSS).
Meanwhile, other sectors, including medical workers and judiciary staff, have received their specialized salary packages.
This disparity has deepened resentment among educators who feel neglected despite their critical role.
Additionally, the Abia State Universal Basic Education Board continues retiring teachers prematurely.
This violates Governor Alex Otti’s directive extending service years to 65 and tenure to 40 years.
Furthermore, promotion arrears remain unpaid for Basic Schools teachers, while secondary school staff have received partial payments.
Such inconsistencies contradict the government’s promises of fair treatment.
The NUT’s March 5 communiqué outlined these grievances clearly.
Union leaders insist their demands are reasonable and overdue, emphasizing that further delays are unacceptable.
Consequently, public primary and secondary schools across Abia will shut down indefinitely.
Teachers remain united in demanding equity and the immediate implementation of agreed-upon terms.
As tensions escalate, the state government has yet to respond.
The union urges members to stay resolute, vowing to continue the strike until their concerns are addressed.
This development threatens to disrupt academic activities for thousands of students. Parents and stakeholders anxiously await government intervention to resolve the crisis.
The NUT’s action reflects growing discontent among civil servants over unpaid benefits.
If unresolved, the strike could inspire similar protests from other aggrieved worker groups.
Observers warn that prolonged industrial action may worsen Abia’s education sector challenges.
Timely dialogue and compromise are essential to prevent further deterioration.
For now, all eyes are on Governor Otti’s administration. Will officials act swiftly to meet teachers’ demands, or will the standoff persist? The coming days will determine Abia’s educational stability.
