Plateau university workers begin indefinite strike

The Senior Staff Association of Nigeria University (SSANU), of Plateau State University (PLASU), Bokkos, on Tuesday, began an indefinite strike following a failed negotiation between the staff of the union and the state government. This is coming barely one month after the academic staff union of the University also began an indefinite strike due to […]

The Senior Staff Association of Nigeria University (SSANU), of Plateau State University (PLASU), Bokkos, on Tuesday, began an indefinite strike following a failed negotiation between the staff of the union and the state government.

This is coming barely one month after the academic staff union of the University also began an indefinite strike due to what they described as insecurity in the university and non-implementation of the staff welfare by the government.

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Disclosing this in Jos, the Acting Chairman of the non-academic staff of the institution, Dusu Sambo, said the decision came after the negotiation between the two parties had failed.

He said: “Following the deadlock reached in our negotiation with the committee constituted by his Excellency, the Governor of the State, SSANU congress, at its meeting held February 22nd, 2021, resolved to commence an indefinite strike with effect from Monday midnight.”

The union further explained that it took the decision because the state government had refused to release the N155b agreed on and pay the 50% earned allowances, adding that: “There has not been the implementation of hazard allowances and payment of minimum wage arrears.”

Daily Trust reported on January 21st how the workers gave the state government seven days ultimatum to fulfil the union’s demands or declared an indefinite strike.

Daily Trust made efforts to speak with the Commissioner of Education in the state, Elizabeth Wapmuk, over the issue but she didn’t respond to calls and a text message sent to her.

However, the commissioner of information and communication, Dan Manjang, said the situation was worrisome and unfortunate.

He said: “It [the strike] is surprising because the union and the government had already signed an agreement to resume work while negotiating on the matter.

“The government had agreed to pay all the arrears but [they] went ahead to declare an indefinite strike. Their action is shortchanging the students.”