ASUU Issues 21-Day Ultimatum to Bayelsa Government, Threatens Strike at University of Africa, Toru-Orua

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), University of Africa, Toru-Orua (UAT) chapter, has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the Bayelsa State Government, demanding immediate action on unresolved issues affecting its members. Failure to address their demands, the union warned, will result in industrial action that could disrupt academic activities.

The decision was reached during an emergency congress held on Tuesday, January 7, at the university campus. The well-attended meeting, conducted in accordance with the union’s constitution and branch rules, highlighted longstanding concerns that have fueled dissatisfaction among academic staff.

Dr. Sigah Donny, ASUU Chairman at UAT, outlined the key grievances. These include the implementation of a 25% salary increment for associate professors and graduate assistants, a 35% salary raise for professors, payment of arrears for annual step increments and promotions since 2019, and the full application of the minimum wage for academic staff.

The union expressed frustration with the government’s lack of responsiveness despite several appeals and consultations. These unresolved issues have significantly hampered the morale and productivity of academic staff, jeopardizing the quality of education at the institution.

If their demands are not met within the 21-day window, the lecturers say they will have no option but to embark on industrial action, a move that would halt all academic operations at the university.

ASUU also appealed to stakeholders, including students, parents, and advocates of quality education, to support their cause. The union emphasized the need for a united effort to resolve the issues, stressing that the well-being of lecturers directly impacts the broader education sector in the state.

The ultimatum underscores the escalating tensions between UAT’s academic staff and the state government, with many watching closely to see if the government will act to prevent a disruption in the university’s academic calendar.