The academic atmosphere at Abdullahi Fodio University of Science and Technology (AFUSTECH), Kebbi State, has turned tense as the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) signals a potential shutdown. The union is warning of an impending industrial action due to the state government's failure to address critical welfare concerns that have lingered for years.

Key Grievances and Unmet Demands

In a statement released on Wednesday by the branch chairman, Dr. Musa Isah Fakai, the union highlighted a breakdown in negotiations despite repeated attempts to engage the university management and the Ministry for Higher Education.

The lecturers' primary concerns include:

    •    Unimplemented Salary Packages: The remuneration agreements reached between the Federal Government and ASUU have not been applied to the state institution.

    •    Unpaid Earned Allowances: Academic earned allowances and wage awards remain outstanding.

    •    Stagnant Promotions: There are significant delays in staff promotions and the payment of subsequent promotion arrears.

    •    Frozen Salary Increments: Annual salary increments have reportedly been suspended for several years, severely impacting the financial well-being of staff.

Hope for Executive Intervention

Despite the threat to "down tools," the union remains optimistic that a total strike can be averted. ASUU expressed confidence in Governor Nasir Idris, suggesting that the full extent of the welfare crisis may not have been formally brought to his attention yet. However, they warned that without a swift and positive response, a disruption of the academic calendar is inevitable.