By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at Abdullahi Fodio University of Science and Technology, Aliero (AFUSTA), has issued a formal ultimatum to the Kebbi State Government regarding a potential strike.

Union Chairman, Dr. Musa Isah Fakai released a statement expressing deep frustration over the persistent neglect of staff welfare. He noted that the union’s previous attempts to engage authorities have been largely ignored.

The lecturers are demanding the immediate implementation of the approved remuneration package. They highlighted that current salary structures do not reflect the agreements made between the union and the government.

A major grievance is the non-payment of Earned Academic Allowances (EAA), which has been outstanding since 2014. This decade-long backlog has significantly contributed to the financial strain on the academic staff.

Furthermore, the union decried the failure of the university to pay promotion arrears. Many staff members who earned promotions years ago have yet to receive the corresponding financial benefits.

The statement also pointed out that annual salary increments have been stalled for several years. The union argued that these “labour-unfriendly” conditions have become unbearable for lecturers at the institution.

While threatening industrial action, the union expressed hope that Governor Nasir Idris would intervene. They believe the Governor, as a former labor leader, may not be fully aware of the extent of these unresolved issues.