The Imo State University branch of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) began an indefinite strike on Friday to push for their demands.
In a statement by the Chairperson, Comrade Odinakachukwu Ejiogu, and Secretary, Comrade Lazarus Chikwendu, ASUU-IMSU said:
We are embarking on a total and comprehensive indefinite strike effective Friday, 20th September. The decision stems from several unresolved issues persisting for years.
Their demands include stopping promotions without financial benefits since 2016, fixing salary differences between ASUU-IMSU staff and other institutions, delays in staff assessments and promotions, selective salary payments, and unpaid salary arrears.
Other issues listed in the statement include unpaid academic allowances since 2009, failure to remit union dues from 2020-2021, unpaid pension deductions from May 2016 till present, unpaid annual salary increments, bringing IMSU under the Treasury Single Account, better funding for the university, and preserving its autonomy.
They said they had tried through letters, rallies, meetings, and press releases, but the university’s administration took no meaningful action. A 21-day notice was given on July 18 to resolve the issues, but with no solution, they felt forced to begin the strike.
Ejiogu asked for public understanding and support as they fought for better conditions and a brighter future for the university.
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