By Princess Simon (Bureau Chief North Central, in Abuja)
The Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) Niger state Wing has expressed worry over the perceived snail pace at which the Niger state government is handling the plight of primary schools teachers especially in the insistence on payment of salaries on percentage.
The alleged care free attitude of Governor Abubakar Sani Bello led administration towards the education sector of the state economy, the NUT argued, are clear indications of the present administration’s little or no concerns about the future of the foundation education in the state.
A statement jointly signed by the State NUT Chairman, Comrade Akayago Adamu Mohammed and the Principal Assistant Secretary General, Comrade Labaran Garba, respectively is calling for the urgent intervention of key stakeholders.
The union said it is worrisome that despite all entreaties on the salaries of the teachers, many of whom now survive on goodwill from friends and family members, the Governor has not deemed it fit to have a change of heart in ending their sufferings.
State government being adamant to its request has only compounded the situation hence, “The union wishes to inform all union members at both Primary and Secondary schools level in Niger state that the Sit-at-home protest still continues and remained enforced”.
The union however acknowledged the role been played by the Organized Labour in Niger state towards ensuring that the state and Local Government Areas proffer lasting solution on the persistent payment of Primary schools Teacher's salaries on percentage.
The Union further calls on all critical stakeholders in the state to urgently intervene on the prevailing challenges facing Teachers and the entire teaching profession all with the views to proffering lasting solution that will save the educational system from eminent collapse.
Meanwhile, Organised Labour in Niger state has given Niger state government 14 days ultimatum to attend to the needs of Primary and Secondary school teachers or face industrial action.
Organised Labour in a letter addressed to the Head of Service, titled, ‘Re- Notice of 14 day ultimatum for Indefinite Strike’, jointly signed by, Comrade Yakubu Garba, NLC Chairman and Comrade Ibrahim Gana, Chairman of TUC respectively, wants the state government to act fast to avoid major labour unrest. NNL.
