JAC of Academic and Non-Academic Staff Unions of Selected Bauchi State-Owned Tertiary Institutions Threatens Strike
By Abubakar Hardawa
The Joint Action Committee (JAC) representing the Academic and Non-Academic Staff Unions of various Bauchi State-owned tertiary institutions has issued a 21-day ultimatum to the state government, demanding the implementation of the new national minimum wage along with other pressing issues.
The unions have raised concerns regarding certain deductions from their salaries and are calling for a review of the new pension scheme, which stipulates that civil servants contribute 8% while the state government contributes 10%.
During a press briefing in Bauchi, the JAC Chairman, Engineer Abubakar Ahmed, stated that if the government fails to meet their demands, they will have no choice but to initiate industrial action.
“The 21-day ultimatum to the Bauchi State government starts today, Tuesday, November 19th, 2024, for the implementation of the new minimum wage for all workers in tertiary institutions, including CONPCASS and CONTEDISS,” he elaborated.
Engineer Abubakar Ahmed emphasized the urgency of implementing the new national minimum wage, citing the dedication of the staff and the economic hardships they currently face.
He warned that the government’s inaction would adversely affect the quality of education, increase the risk of brain drain, and lead to financial difficulties, as current salaries are inadequate for sustaining livelihoods.
Additional concerns highlighted include a decline in staff morale, retention issues, widespread discontent, and potential loss of status and accreditation, as high-caliber staff are required for course accreditation.
Addressing the pension scheme, the JAC Chairman expressed apprehension regarding its sustainability, fund management, and timely remittance to prevent a recurrence of previous issues where retirees experienced delays in accessing their benefits.
“We urge the Bauchi State government to take proactive measures to resolve these issues before fully implementing the contributory pension scheme,” Engineer Abubakar Ahmed stated.
He also called on the state government to establish a comprehensive framework for monitoring, enforce stringent oversight for pension fund management, engage representatives of civil servants, and consider adjustments to existing deductions, as well as increase the employer’s contribution to 17%.
“Currently, workers in Bauchi State face multiple mandatory deductions from their salaries, including 2% for health contributions, 1% for orphan and vulnerable children funds, and 2.5% for the national housing fund,” he explained.
The tertiary institutions affected by this situation include Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic, Bauchi; AD Rufai College of Education, Legal and General Studies, Misau; Bauchi State College of Agriculture; Aminu Sale College of Education, Azare; and Adamu Tafawa Balewa College of Education, Kangere.
