Lecturers at Rufus Giwa Polytechnic in Owo, Ondo State, have initiated an industrial action to express their dissatisfaction with the non-payment of their salaries for the past 13 months. The academic staff members have decided to protest against this issue, demanding immediate action from the government.
According to a communiqué released by the Academic Staff Union of Polytechnic, RUGIPO chapter, on Thursday, the lecturers have taken a stand to boycott the upcoming first-semester examinations scheduled for next Tuesday unless the government intervenes. The communiqué, jointly signed by Comrade Arikawe Ade, the chairman of the union, and Comrade Fapetu Damilola, the secretary, highlighted the union’s resolution to withdraw their services, effectively commencing the industrial action on Friday.
The primary demand put forth by the union is the full payment of all outstanding salary arrears owed to the institution’s staff, spanning a period of 13 months. The union emphasized that this decision is binding on all financial members of the association. It further pointed out the hardships faced by its members in the wake of escalating fuel prices, which have made it increasingly challenging for them to attend to their official duties. The Congress expressed deep concern over the dire situation faced by its members due to the accumulation of unpaid salaries.
In light of these circumstances, the union urged the Ondo State government to extend assistance to the authorities of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic in settling the salary arrears. It highlighted the disparity between the treatment of the polytechnic staff and the state and local government workers who receive their salaries promptly.
The strike action taken by the lecturers at Rufus Giwa Polytechnic serves as a powerful statement against the prolonged non-payment of their salaries. As they continue their fight for justice, the union hopes to draw attention to their plight and secure a resolution that will alleviate the financial burden faced by its members.