Academic and non-academic staff unions of Bauchi State-owned tertiary institutions have commenced a total, indefinite strike following unresolved demands with the state government.
The Joint Action Committee announced the industrial action in a communique issued on Thursday, marking the beginning of a prolonged standoff that could disrupt education in the state.
JAC Chairman,Abubakar Ahmed,said the decision to embark on a full strike follows the expiration of a two-week warning strike that ran from December 16 to December 30, 2024.
The unions accuse government representatives of employing delay tactics and showing a lack of sincere commitment to resolving their grievances, including the implementation of new salary tables under the CONPCASS and CONTEDISS structures.
Ahmed expressed disappointment with the government’s handling of the matter, particularly what he described as
threats and intimidation directed at union leaders and members.
The unions are demanding full implementation of CONPCASS and CONTEDISS salary tables, commitment to job security and staff welfare, an end to intimidation tactics by government representatives.
Ahmed said the strike was aimed at protecting stability, proficiency, and quality service delivery in Bauchi’s tertiary institutions.
The indefinite strike affects several state-owned institutions, including, Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic, Bauchi, Adamu Tafawa Balewa College of Education, Kangere, A.D. Rufai College of Education, Legal and General Studies, Misau, Aminu Saleh College of Education, Azare, Bauchi State College of Agriculture, Bauchi, Bill and Melinda Gates College of Health Sciences and Technology, Ningi.
The strike means that lectures, administrative functions, and other academic activities will be suspended indefinitely until the unions’ demands are met.
While announcing the strike, JAC sympathized with students and parents, acknowledging the inconveniences the industrial action would cause.
“We regret any disruption this strike may cause to the academic calendar, but we are left with no choice. Once our demands are met, we will return to work,” the statement read.
The Bauchi State government has not issued an official response to the strike action as of the time of filing this report.
