- Government teachers in Federal Capital Territory (FCT) embarked on an indefinite strike, following a 14-day ultimatum
- Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) pushed for the payment of 60% minimum wage arrears and allowances
- The strike would be accompanied by protests and support from secondary school teachers in the long term, Union warned
Teachers in government schools across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have begun an indefinite strike. This action follows a 14-day ultimatum issued to the six area councils by the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), FCT Chapter.
The union issued a warning that, “This strike we started today is just the beginning. If the government does not respond after about 7 days, we are going to picket the area councils’ secretariats.”
Union threatens protests if demands are not met
Pupils who went to school on Wednesday, September 18 were returned home disappointed after their teachers sent them back at the gate.
Confirming the situation, the Chairman of the NUT in Kubwa, Comrade Ameh Baba, stated that a resolution had been passed before the strike started.
He stated that “It would also be followed with the protest as well a solidarity from the secondary schools’ teacher in the long run. But as of now it would affect the JSS 1 incoming students, because their result is due for release.”
Teachers demand 60% settlement of wage arrears
He mentioned that the main focus of the strike is to pressure the six area councils to fulfill their promise of settling 60 percent of the owed minimum wage arrears.
The Union condemned the councils for not enacting the 40 percent peculiar allowance for teachers and for neglecting the 25 percent and 35 percent salary increases.
The Chairman emphasised that since primary education forms the basis of human education, it should be approached with the utmost diligence.
Kano, Edo postpone resumption for schools indefinitely, give reasons
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the resumption date for primary and secondary schools in Kano and Edo was postponed indefinitely.
The Edo State Government advised parents and guardians to closely monitor their children due to the ongoing tension caused by the fuel price increase.