Polytechnic Staff Strike For Pay Increase

JOS, July 14, (THEWILL) - The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Polytechnics (SSANIP) has embarked on a total strike action to demand for increase in salaries as well as other issues.

The strike commenced today after the expiration of a two-week warning strike declared on the 5th of July 2010.

Chairman of the Plateau State Chapter of SSANIP, Mr. Yusuf Selchang said the strike is in line with decision of the national body of the association to resume the industrial action following the expiation of the two weeks deadline given to the federal government.

"This is to inform all members that the national office of the association has directed the continuation of the strike action declared on 5th July, 2010 in which in this case shall be total."

The union is calling for the implementation of the 2001 agreement which contains the issue of salary package, bridging the gap between degree and HND certificates among others issues.

Mr. Selchang also added that they will continue with the indefinite strike until their demands are met pointing out that the SSANIP is a very "important and functional" body in the polytechnic system whose absence will definitely affect the academic curriculum "so it is important that the government looks into our case".

The statement called on its members to strictly adhere to the directive and stay away from classroom until the leadership of the national bodies issues a counter order.